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
