It seems in preparing for today and re-reading my commentary I have came to the conclusion that I am most like a Martha. Speaking hesitantly and ignorantly at times, complaining on occasion, but by the grace of God serving those that I can the portion (though small) that He has provided me. I am thankful He loved them the same. I pray God blesses these words to your hearts.
Extra Credit: Not ignoring the example Mary offers all of us, I offer this extra reading by Donald Bell on what it is to be Sitting at Jesus Feet.
Jhn 12:1 Then Jesus six days before the Passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.
Jhn 12:2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
Jhn 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.
- Is this the same account that is recorded in Matthew and Mark?
- Are you a Martha, Lazarus, or Mary?
I would first like to remember the words found in Chapter 11:5 (Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.) Looking at those words, all were Gods elect, all were loved by Jesus, and all served the Lord. But striking the different ways each served. Martha it seemed spoke hesitantly on many occasions but her heart wished to do all she could. Now in Bethany she served by herself Jesus and all of His followers. With the gifts that she was provided she made the supper and served and feed many. Lazarus sat humbly and quietly at the table as a testament to the work of Christ. Not in words but by his life he glorified God that gave him that gift to live again. And Mary, at the feet once again of the Lord worshiping with a grace filled heart. Giving much more than the cost of this ointment but in submission wiping her fathers feet with her hair, preparing Him for His journey to come.
Reader take care in judging another Christian. For you will find Marthas, Lazarus, and Marys that serve, act, and give in different ways. Christ has a use and a purpose for each of His children. Though we look at these verses and are drawn to Marys actions let us not forget that Martha served. Let us not forget that many came because of Lazarus but ended up hearing Jesus. And when we promote man for their work or judge any by their works let us not forget. (1 Cor 12:27-28)
