Action and reflection
The Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42
Forgive me for a little pop psychology. It seems to me that some people are naturally activists. They are always up and doing. Other people are naturally reflective. They want to stand back from life and consider everything carefully. In this beautiful little account, we meet two sisters who are perfect examples of these different approaches to life.
Martha was an activist. She knew Jesus had a very busy ministry and it was obvious to her that he needed a good meal. Martha was therefore appalled when she saw her sister skiving. Mary was sitting at Jesus’ feet listening carefully to him and, meanwhile, Martha was fuming. Mary should have been working as hard as she was!
In a complete strop, Martha went to Jesus and told him to order Mary to help her. Jesus’ response must have been devastating. She was so sure she was right, but Jesus gently informed her that she was completely wrong. Mary was right: listening to Jesus was a much higher priority than getting the meal ready.
What are we to conclude from this story? Is all housework wrong? That wasn’t what Jesus was saying. Activity and reflection are both vitally important. Yesterday we learned that our love for God should result in practical action. Today, we learn we all need to spend time at the feet of Jesus.
If you are an activist like Martha, God wants you to learn the importance of sitting still and listening to him. If you are naturally reflective like Mary, you need to remember that God is also looking for you to turn your devotion into loving, costly action.
QUESTION
What have you learned from this story?
PRAYER
Lord help me to learn the importance of both action and reflection. Amen