Mary and Martha, two sisters who are very different from one another. They are two disciples. These two ladies show us much about pure worship and the kind of worship Jesus takes delight in. Let’s read John 10: 38-39. This is where we are introduced to Mary and Martha. What are your thoughts about Mary? What are your thoughts about Martha? How does Mary act toward Jesus?
She was so hungry to learn more about Jesus. She sat at Jesus’ feet to hear all he had to say. She soaked up every word He spoke. Her heart reflected what He talked about at the Feast of Tabernacles. The verb tense of akouo, which is translated as “heard” or “listening.” It is referred to one who is continually hearing or listening. A lifestyle of listening to His Word. How are you in this area of your life? Do you sit at His feet every day and are listening to his voice and Word? Mary was a disciple who longed to abide in Jesus’ word, know the truth, and walk in the freedom He promised.
Martha welcomed Jesus and His disciples as guests in her home. Then as any hostess in one’s home became very distracted with preparing and serving the meal. She has not yet made abiding or listening to a priority in her life yet. How did Martha react to Jesus? Martha actually tried to rebuke both Mary and Jesus.
Let’s read on to John 10: 40-41. What did Jesus tell Martha in Luke 10:41? How did Jesus describe Martha? Jesus spoke to Martha very clearly. She was worried and bothered by too many other things to really focus on God. Mary made a choice, while Martha was worried and conflicted by other things.
Are you listening to God’s Word with a heart like Mary? Or are you too busy trying to serve God, the church, your family, or even yourself? Take some time and pray over your attitude of abiding and listening.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your Word. Thank you for the ministry Jesus had here on earth. I pray that we will have a heart like Mary, where we want to hear and listen to all you have to speak to us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
