In 1966 Dr. Seuss wrote a children’s book called Come Over to My House. It told of being invited into another child’s home many times over - each one in a different spot of the world. Each stop was a place to visit, have fun, and enjoy friendship with others.
Luke tells us about Jesus being invited into the house of Martha and Mary. Scripture says he was welcomed inside. That brings a picture of having an old friend call and mention that they’re in town for a few hours, so of course you tell them to come on over.
But then you realize that the den needs straightening and, oh, you forgot to vacuum! As they ring the bell, you see the toys that are still out (where is that child!) and hear the timer go off - hurry, the cookies will burn! Your friend finds a seat as you scurry off to the kitchen. In a bit you return to your friend, but you are still distracted about what has not gotten done.
Wait... slow down for a moment.
Isn’t this your friend? Are you making your friend feel welcomed or stressed? What is more important - a perfect house or time to visit?
Martha was focused on the house. Her sister, Mary, focused on Jesus. Who do you think truly made him feel more at home?
During this season, slow down for a bit. Welcome your friends into your life - not your image. Ask them to sit a spell. Be present with them. Relax.
During this season, slow down for a bit. Welcome Jesus into your life - the everyday one. Sit for a spell with him. Be present with him, truly present. Seek to be more like Mary. Jesus said that was the better choice.
“Be still and know I am God.” (Psa. 46:10a)
38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 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 left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”