Luke 10:38-40

Cumbered: troubled; harass; to clutter up; hindrance.

Martha was Jesus’ host. She received him into her house and busied herself serving him. Jesus was in the house and there was much to be done. He would be hungry and tired.

Knead the dough, bake the bread.

 Cook the fish; Jesus was fed.

Martha was working but where was Mary? Not working, of course, but sitting at the feet of Jesus. Did she not understand all that needed to be done? It must be nice to be at ease when hosting the master. He was a guest of high honor. How could she….What was Martha to do?

Tell Jesus, of course!

 Lord, don’t you care that Mary has left me to serve you all alone? Could you tell her to offer help?

Martha, Martha you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is most needful: Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away.

Mary had chosen to sit at the feet of Jesus and hear his words.

Ladies, we all have heavy workloads: Cooking, cleaning, working, errands, church responsibilities, and last but not least we care for our husbands and children and often ailing family members.

My children are grown now but I look back and wonder how I managed. I didn’t some days. I tried to take care of my responsibilities by making certain tasks a priority, which I sometimes did not have in order. I relate to Martha, I worried and felt troubled too often.

Those of us who are Martha’s can learn from Mary. Take time to sit at Jesus’ feet. Read the word and listen. Take time to talk to Jesus before taking on each busy day. Daily bible reading and prayer time is essential for contentment. My most satisfying days start with Jesus.

Martha was cumbered in her soul and mind over serving Jesus but:

Was Jesus concerned about his hunger?  Not according to John 4:32.

Was Jesus concerned about his comfort? Not according to Matthew 8:20

Serving Jesus does not mean we are busy constantly with church work and serving others. The best part of serving Jesus is when we are sitting at his feet. We are not the only ones to shoulder church work or housework. Ministry work is important but only secondary to worship. Cooked meals and clean houses are necessary but not the top priority.

Time with Jesus is most needful.

*Have you ever been like Martha and let your duties hinder your worship?

*Have you been guilty of cluttering your life with daily tasks?

*Have you felt troubled by those who did not offer help, in the church or in your home?

Tell Jesus. He will have something to say!