Sitting Before Serving

The story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42 often leaves readers with the impression that Jesus was dismissive of Martha's efforts to serve. After all, hospitality was considered a sacred duty, and Martha was fulfilling this role. Why then did Jesus commend Mary for sitting at His feet while gently correcting Martha? Was He minimizing the importance of service?

The key lies not in what Martha was doing, but in how she was doing it. Luke notes that Martha was "distracted with all her preparations." Her heart was not at rest; anxiety, frustration, and resentment filled her spirit. She even accused Jesus of being unfair–"Lord, do You not care...?" Service offered in this spirit ceases to be an act of love and becomes a burden. By contrast, Mary placed herself in the position of a disciple, prioritizing fellowship with Christ above all else. Jesus commended her because she had chosen "the good part"–the one thing necessary, listening to Him.

Jesus was not rejecting service but reordering priorities. Discipleship begins with receiving, not doing. Service without first sitting at the Lord's feet leads to burnout, pride, or bitterness. Fellowship with Christ equips and sanctifies service so that it becomes a joyful expression of love.

Lessons for Today's Believers

1. Discipleship begins with listening

Before rushing into activity, believers must learn to hear Christ through His Word and prayer. This posture ensures that all service flows from His guidance rather than human anxiety.

2. Beware of distraction in service

Even good work can become spiritually empty if carried out with worry or comparison. Serving the Lord should bring peace, not resentment.

3. Balance sitting and serving

Mary and Martha are not opposites but complements. True discipleship includes both attentive devotion and active service, in their proper order.

In the end, Jesus was not demeaning Martha's work but inviting her to discover that fellowship with Him is the foundation of all fruitful labor. Only when we sit at His feet can we rise to serve with joy.