MARY & MARTHA WEEK 05: Pull up on MEEEEE!: “A Place at His Feet”

Scriptures: Luke 10:38–42

Reflection Song: “I Give Myself Away” by William McDowell

What Had Happened Was…(the modern summary)

So Boom…(the revelation)

The contrast between Mary and Martha can feel polarizing. The scene is set with Mary, an inquisitive sponge at the feet of Jesus, listening only to His voice. Just a few feet away, we see Martha, a task-oriented doer, unable to see past her immediate responsibilities. In our own lives, we may find ourselves relating more closely to one sister than the other.

The lesson here is not about personality traits, but about self-awareness in the presence of God. Knowing when to prepare while you are waiting on Him, and when to sit at His feet once He arrives, are different levels of discernment we must master as believers. Did food need to be prepared? Yes. Did Jesus have a word to share? Yes. Neither sister’s approach was wrong in itself, but in the moment of being in the direct presence of Jesus, Mary’s choice was praised.

My prayer is that we don’t become so focused on what’s next that we miss the gift of right now.

QTNA (Questions That Need Answers)

1. Which sister’s perspective feels closer to your own daily life, and what makes it harder to step into the other’s shoes?
   • Scripture Recharge: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4, ESV)
2. Sometimes the “good portion” Jesus mentioned doesn’t feel urgent. What helps you realign God’s priorities with your own when they seem to compete?
   • Scripture Recharge: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33, ESV)
3. Sitting at Jesus’ feet can look different for each of us. What are some ways you practice this in your own life, and how has it shaped your relationship with Him?
   • Scripture Recharge: “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10, ESV)
4. Martha was described as distracted while serving. When we serve on the Dream Team, what can help us stay focused on the heart of serving instead of being pulled away by distractions?
   • Scripture Recharge: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23, ESV)
5. It can be hard to hear God in moments of frustration. How do you open your heart to His instruction when emotions make it difficult to receive correction?
   • Scripture Recharge: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10, ESV)