Mary and Martha

There are several stories in the Bible involving Mary and Martha. These usually leave me feeling uneasy. You see, I identify with Martha. Martha is the busy one, the one getting things done. She works hard and is practical. She doesn't allow herself to feel too much emotion or to get caught up in the moment. Mary, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to be with Jesus. She hangs on his every word. She risks scandal to be with him and show him how much she loves him. I'm a Martha I see all sorts of things to criticize in the Mary's of this world. However, secretly I envy them. I envy the trusting relationship between Mary and Jesus. I am jealous of her desire to sit at Jesus' feet and just listen to him. I wish I could be vulnerable like her. I wish I could be like Mary, but I'm a Martha. I will never be a Mary, but I can become the best Martha that I am able. Serving out of heart instead of obligation. Letting go of my comparison with Mary, I can be just as close to Jesus as Mary. I wrote this poem about Martha.

My Name is Martha

1/18/09

My name is Martha

Cooking, cleaning, serving

My duty

Acclaimed, spotless house

My pride

Hearty kosher meals

My joy

Jesus, Rabbi, Friend

A most auspicious guest

My chance

Unparalleled feast

My worth

Lifetime opportunity

My wealth

There is too much work

Where is Mary?

My help

Wasting time, abandoning

My anger

“Master, tell my sister!”

My justification

“Martha, Martha, Martha,

What do you do?”

My self-righteousness

Your sister chose better

My indignation

You should have done the same

My shame

My name is Martha

My service

Just busy expectations

My heart

Focused on myself

My redemption

Messiah’s sacrifice