And Jesus answered and said to Her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.

Luke 10:41-42

Martha and Mary were so excited. Jesus was going to visit their family. What an honor! No doubt they busied themselves making preparation for their dear friend’s visit. Then came the sound of voices and footsteps. Jesus was finally coming. They flew out to meet Him. Welcoming sounds and laughs of delight filled the air. Then they brought Jesus into the house and made Him comfortable. Martha started to bustle about making certain that everything was just so. She wanted everything to be perfect so that Jesus would  feel welcome there-and , no doubt, so that she would look good. Mary, on the other hand, couldn’t take her eyes off Jesus. In fact, she was so mesmerized that she sat down at His feet with all the men.

Martha was furious with her “lazy” sister, who had left her with all the work. She stormed into Jesus’ presence and demanded thar He tell Mary to help her. Instead, Jesus honored Mary for choosing relationship.

I have often  wondered how Martha responded to Jesus’ criticism. I have wanted to believe that Martha  heard the love and the truth in those words and joined Mary on the floor at Jesus’ feet.

Prayer:  Lord, help me remember that relationship is more important than reputation.