Distracted With Much Serving

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:38-42)

Martha was distracted “with much serving,” which kept her from sitting and listening to the teaching of Jesus. Jesus gently rebuked her, and encouraged her to be more like her sister (ouch!) who simply settled down, sat down, and listened. Many have pointed out what a unique picture this was in the ancient world, that a woman would have such an opportunity for discipleship.

But what about Martha? Was Martha attempting to impress the Lord by serving him? Or was she busy and distracted because she felt that hospitality required perfection – a perfect home and a perfect meal?

Also, what did Jesus mean when he said, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things”? Were the “many things” those she was already doing – or was Jesus implying that her busyness was the result of a deeper spiritual unrest?

I’m sure that Martha could hear Jesus’ teaching – he was probably within earshot. But she could not think deeply on it, she could not really “make it her own.” What about you? Do you believe that Jesus is your own, and therefore you do not need to impress him - or avoid him?