When you’ve been “churched” all your life, you can spot the “Marys and Marthas” in a congregation. (I’m still searching for the male counterparts – Mark and Martin, perhaps?). “Martha” is the busybody, the worker bee. “Mary” is the reflective, contemplative one; going to Bible studies, singing in the choir. There is room for both those who are active and those who come across as more spiritual.

I am not suggesting that there is a choice to be made between the two. We are endowed with both parts. Being active increases our endorphins and renews us. When we seek to be alone with God, we often come away from that prayerful interlude with love and compassion for the world. Too much spirituality might lead to escapism. Too much activity can burn us out, cause us to lose perspective. We grow as responsible Christians when we find an effective balance.

In prayer, we should ask God to address our needs so that we are better positioned to witness with our testimony and deeds, i.e. being both “Mary and Martha, Mark and Martin”. We were meant to be in community, in a congregation that exemplifies both activity and spirituality. Don’t let competing personas keep you from the body of Christ. We worship, honor, praise and serve God and the mission of His kingdom that He calls us to with His unconditional love.

Pastor Art