Of all the New Testament passages, Luke’s passage (Luke 10:38-42) about Martha and Mary has always had a special meaning for me. I remember hearing it as a child and at once identifying with Martha. I also named my sister Francine as Mary. It was not a compassionate identification. It was fraught with resentment and antagonism, probably a bit like Martha felt for her sister in this recounting.

In my childlike way I thought that I was always expected to take the lead and do the tasks to show the way for my younger siblings, while they (i.e., Francine and then the others) were able to sit and watch TV or read a book until I got the task done. This was not the case. They had to do tasks just as I did, but I took on the role of martyr. So, I admired Martha’s spunk in being able to speak up for herself.

This Sunday, Father David pointed out key issues that changed my thinking about the roles that these women played.  He stressed that service (Martha) and contemplation (Mary) were both necessary to fulfill the kingdom of God.

 He noted that Martha invited Jesus to her house. It was unusual for a woman to own a house in the time of Jesus. With this knowledge, we can see why Martha wants to take such pains to be sure that the dinner is prepared to her expectations. However, she also wants to hear what Jesus to talking about to the others. She is a committed follower of Jesus and believes that He is the Messiah. She is conflicted.

While she is laboring in the kitchen, her sister Mary is sitting at Jesus’ feet taking it all in and not offering to help. So, what does Martha do? She complains to the Teacher! How does she have the nerve to interrupt Him while he is presenting a lesson? She asks Him to tell Mary to help her. Where does her courage come from?

For modern day women, this action seems logical and overdue on Martha’s part. However, for the women of 30 A.D., this behavior would be scandalous. Father David’s observation as to why Martha is bold enough to confront Jesus on this issue is because they are friends. (Another unusual circumstance for a woman of this time.) Friends who can count on each other in times of need and conflict. Friends who can ask for help and accept an unwanted answer.

Jesus does not give Martha the answer that she wants. Of special note, His response emphasizes the importance of grounding all aspects of our lives in our relationship with God, in our friendship with God. With God at our side as an unwavering friend, we can conquer any challenge, any goal, any obstacle even a dinner party for the Lord God Almighty. Remember, God loves you unconditionally.

Terri