Mission Possible Blog : Mary & Martha - A Tale of Two Sisters (Part 1)

The town of Bethany was near Jerusalem on the eastern slope of Mt. Olivet. Mary and Martha, along with their brother Lazarus, were close personal friends of the Lord Jesus. It is thought that they might have grown up in the part of Galilee where Jesus had lived, and moved to

the town of Bethany at a later date. They held a special place in Jesus’ heart, as evidenced in the Scriptures (John 11:3; 5).

Both of the gospels of John and Luke tell us Jesus frequented their home, most likely for a hearty meal and much needed fellowship. The narrative in John 11:1-44 tells us of the intimate bond they all shared. Remember, John was one of the three closest disciples. He was part of the inner circle: Peter, James and John. He had a unique perspective as he watched his Lord interact with people, and lovingly taught them with His life story. Jesus spent much of His earthly ministry traveling the hillsides surrounding the region of Galilee, which bordered the sea of Galilee. There He preached His first sermon, performed His first miracle, called His first disciples, and spent the majority of His time as a traveling preacher and teacher.

Mary and Martha were sisters with very different personalities. As it is with most sisters, they probably got on each other’s nerves. Martha is thought to have been a widow, as we are told it was her house (Luke 10:38). Perhaps she was the housekeeper and caretaker of it, as it is also referred to as Simon (the leper’s) house in Mark 14. Martha might have also been the eldest daughter – which may explain her great empathy for her sister’s well-being (John 11:19-20), as well as her overt agitation with her sister’s lack of concern for the dinner preparations (Luke 10:39-40).

Martha must have had a very close relationship with Jesus for her to confront the Lord in such a manner as to “vent” to Him about Mary. In Luke 10:40 she said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” Wow, what nerve she had – demanding anything from Jesus. She was definitely flustered as she swarmed about the simmering pots, stone oven, and tables overflowing with grains, fruits and vegetables.

Martha was well organized and was a “take-charge” person. I have always liked Martha because I relate to her so much. I’m a doer – a servant at heart. I see a need and I try to meet it. I like to come alongside and help. Lend a hand. Get ‘er done mentality. Martha was probably a great cook and hostess. She no doubt spent many hours in preparation for Jesus and His disciples to dine with them during His ministry on earth. I have always read the passage about Martha being “distracted with much serving” and thought to myself, “Well, it’s not going to get done all by itself!” Yep, that’s me…The good, the bad, and the ugly. But, as Martha observed her sister near their guest, instead of looking at her with distain - you’d think it would have piqued her interest in what He was saying.

As I spend more time in God’s Word, and mature as a Christian, I relate more and more to Mary. I love to study Scripture and learn about our Lord Jesus. I want to sit at His feet and learn from Him. As I grow older, I am less concerned with what the house looks like, and more concerned with my heart’s condition, and the inside of my spiritual temple. I am slowly coming to the realization that I need to emulate Mary more and more. I need to take time to build that intimate relationship with Jesus.

I need a balance of Mary and Martha in my life. What about you?

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.

Visit http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

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