The famous (or infamous) narrative of Mary and Martha is the subject of this chapter. However Ms. James takes us deep into the culture of the period, where women were not encouraged to sit at the feet of the Rabbi and learn with the men. Here, in the home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary, all are welcome to hear and learn.
Martha was feeling the weight of her hostess duties not only to Jesus, but to His entourage. This may have been 70 or more individuals for whom she was preparing food. It was such an honor to host Rabbi Jesus and His disciples. It was also stressful. It doesn't matter how adept you are at catering to a crowd, a crowd can be intimidating to serve.
It is interesting to note, no other women are mentioned being in attendance, and it was not likely that the men would help serve. So, no wonder Martha was frustrated with Mary. It was easy to let her frustration accuse Mary of shirking her duties. I know. I've been there.
I have also been busy serving my family and been envious of the deep conversations going on in another room. It's hard to join in when it's time for something to come out of the oven or something is boiling on the stove and there are little kids around. I have to concentrate on the joy of serving at that moment and know that my turn for the deep conversations will come around.
The question "Would Jesus accept the notion that some women are 'Marys' and others are 'Marthas'?" and "Why or why not?" has a clear answer. At times we are called to be one or the other or both. At all times we are called to sit at His feet, gain knowledge of the one who made us, and put our hope and trust in Him. It is the better thing.
No comments:
Post a Comment