“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord don’t you care that my sister has asked me to do the work all by myself? Tell her to help me!” - Luke 10:40 (NIV)

Martha and Mary were sisters very opposite in characters. While Martha is the busy get- on- with- it type, her sister Mary is the more reclining- why-hurry type. Elsewhere we see Martha after the death of the brother Lazarus challenging Jesus, “Lord,” Martha said, “If you had been here my brother would not have died” (John 10:21, NIV). Mary is meanwhile in the house seating with mourners.

In all families these characters are quite normal to find. Perhaps one could say Martha is the more aggressive and pushy type. Mary could be the quieter and observant type.

Now the thing is we need both characters: an action oriented Martha who gets on with the job and a quieter more reflective Mary, who prayerfully waits on Jesus. For this is actually how the kingdom of God works with roles for each one of us, and none of less value: “In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purpose but some for common use,” (2 Tim 2:20, NIV).

Let each one of us find that role and let’s work harmoniously together to build His kingdom.

Prayer for today: Lord Father in heaven, today I pray in the mighty name of Jesus of Nazareth that I use the gifts you have given me for your glory.