Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

It always amazes me how two people can have totally different experiences from the same moment. Luke tells us that as Jesus and His disciples traveled, they entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. Eager to serve, Martha busied herself with the preparations, ensuring that everything was perfect for her honored guest.

However, amidst her busyness, Martha's sister Mary chose a different path. Instead of helping with the preparations, Mary "sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said" (Luke 10:39). Sounds simple enough, but this act of sitting at Jesus' feet was significant—it symbolized a posture of learning, devotion, and prioritizing His presence above all else. In their culture, this was a bold move for a woman, because this posture of learning was typically the man’s seat.

Pause. What is your default response? Is your first foot forward with Jesus one of “doing for” like Martha or “being with” like Mary?

Martha, feeling the weight of the work and noticing Mary’s absence, approached Jesus in frustration. “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Luke 10:40). Martha was doing her best to serve Jesus, yet she felt burdened and alone in her efforts. Honestly, I get Martha’s frustration. I think I would have been a little mad too.

Pay attention to Jesus' response in Luke 10:41-42: “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Jesus acknowledges Martha’s concerns but redirects her focus. Martha isn’t critiqued or ridiculed. He doesn’t belittle or chastise her. Jesus simply sets her eyes on the reality that Mary has chosen a response of greater value.

In our busy lives, it’s easy to become consumed with tasks and responsibilities, even those done in service to God. However, Jesus invites us to first sit at His feet, to prioritize His presence, and to listen to His words. This is where we find true rest, guidance, and the strength needed for our tasks.

Is it bad to serve others? Should we neglect opportunities to "do for" when we can simply sit? Absolutely not. The New Testament is clear that “faith without works is dead.” Mary's example reminds us that our relationship with Jesus is the foundation of our service. When we spend time with Him, we are filled and equipped to serve others more effectively and with a heart aligned with His. "Being with" Jesus transforms our "doing for" Him from mere activity to meaningful service grounded in His love and wisdom.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Have you paused to be with Jesus today? Now is a great opportunity. Take a few minutes to pause, pray, and listen. Let whatever you do next be fueled by your presence with Him. 
• Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for being a God that wants to commune with Your people. Give me a hunger and desire to be with You and invite You into every moment of life. In Jesus' name, amen.