The esteemed Apostle Paul is the one who uttered these words millennia ago. Though born in what is modern-day Turkey, he sat at the feet of the famous Rabbi Gamaliel in Jerusalem.

 

The trailblazing Paul knew all about sitting at and learning from an esteemed teacher of the Word. That was what those interested in being part of the religious order of Israel did, and as for Paul, he was one of the best.

 

Yet, there is a passage of Scripture (Luke 10:38-42), where Mary, sister of Martha, sits at Jesus’ feet. She knew where she needed to be, and it was not doing housework or being hospitable, rather it was honouring the King of kings in her midst.

 

I have heard so many sermons where it seemed as though the issue was a Martha-versus-Mary battle: chores versus chilling with Jesus. And to be honest I felt guilty because I would have had the same response as Martha.

 

I, too, would have wanted things to be perfect when Jesus came over, fussing over the details as any good hostess would be apt to do. All the more, if one had inkling that the Messiah himself was coming to ones house.

 

But Martha is firmly told that Mary has chosen what is better. The latter is hungry for the Word of God and keen to learn. Interestingly, the Bible is silent on whether any of the siblings had spouses. They were, however, of independent means. In fact, it is recorded that Martha welcomed Jesus into her home.

 

It is perhaps plausible that Martha found her identity and value wrapped up in her ability to entertain and be hospitable. And who can blame her. Yet, there Martha was, hearing that Mary had chosen what was better. The latter had placed herself at the feet of Jesus and found peace.

 

One was fretting and anxious, the other a picture of peace. In the light of that, Mary had definitely made a better choice. What do your choices reveal? Are you frazzled and anxious, or at peace at the feet of the King?

 

Prayer: We praise you God that we have the opportunity to sit at the feet of the Ultimate Rabbi through your Word whenever we choose to do so. Thank you that your Word is so accessible to us today. Amen