Martha Rest!

May 1, 2022

by Jackie O'Connor

I think every woman can relate to the famous story of Martha and Mary in Luke’s gospel:
³⁸As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. ³⁹She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. ⁴⁰But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”. ⁴¹“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, ⁴²but few things are needed—or indeed only one.^[^a^] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Every time, I’ve heard this scripture, I also hear my own husband’s voice in my head telling me to relax. I’m not sure why it bothers me so much as his intentions are always good, but I feel chided. Usually I’m in “Martha-mode” and I’m running around trying to set up the perfect affair with the most attention to detail so that all those involved will feel loved by all of my special touches. I love to entertain and I’m always so very busy making sure my guests experience the most memorable event!

As I’ve grown deeper in my faith I see more clearly why Jesus told Martha that Mary has chosen the better part. I’m also trying to do the same. We sometimes forget that it’s really our presence that is the gift to those we love and all of the extras—although truly appreciated -- are simply extra. If those preparations take us away from the true purpose of fellowship and connecting; we are doing ourselves a great dis-service. We are not serving others or ourselves. We are letting false expectations ruin the experience in the long run.

Sometimes we overthink what we believe others need and want from us. Jesus knows this well and He wanted Martha to feel more peace and not worry so much. He was encouraging her to just be in the moment with Him. This message is for us today. People will always remember how we made them feel rather than what we did or said to them. If we are too stressed planning and organizing, we are likely to lack the energy to simply enjoy the moments.

Feelings matter. Quality time that is peace-filled and intentional allows others to feel our love from our heart. They appreciate the time taken to prepare for their visit, but they will remember far more the conversation that connected their heart to our own. Hopefully, in the future I will remember this invaluable lesson and no one will ever feel compelled to tell me to “relax” again. My more peaceful disposition will be a better gift I exude and share.

Martha is every busy, stressed, over committed, hard -working and loving Mom I know. Mary needs to be our role model. Placing ourselves in the most intimate situations where we can sit with our Lord and just listen to His life guidance will help us to prioritize the necessary things. We will have more time for finding the “better part” and that peace will never be taken from us!