Luke 10:38-42 (NRSV)
Read Luke 10:38-42 on biblegateway.com
Verse 38Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Verse 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. Verse 40But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." Verse 41But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; Verse 42there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."
Devotion
“As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home.” (TEV) I belong to a text study group that meets twice a month with a different pastor hosting each time. We usually eat at a restaurant after our morning study, but since there are no restaurants open at noon in my small town, I enjoy making a meal for our group. I sometimes think that Martha is criticized too harshly. A good friend welcomes and provides hospitality, which I enjoy doing and which Martha did. As host I prepare food ahead of time so I can welcome the group and participate in text study. That’s all part of being a great friend. Martha, unfortunately, became so concerned about making a five-course meal for Jesus and forgot about making him feel welcome and taking the time to converse with him. A proper host and friend does not ignore the guest in the living room.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, help us to always welcome you into our homes and our lives. Forgive us for the times we become distracted by our busyness. Amen.
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