I recently found myself reading a well-known biblical passage.  Jesus and the disciples were coming through a village where a woman named Martha opened up her home to them.  Apparently, Jesus decided to do a little Bible study while he was there.  We southerners know good hospitality always includes food so there’s no doubt Martha prepared a spread fit for a king.  Literally.  It was the kind of meal you walk away from the table fussing at yourself for eating so much.  Your pants are tight, you’re having trouble breathing, and you feel like you’ll burst.  In my mind I envision Martha running around working her fingers to the bone while sweat poured from her brow.  After a while she noticed Mary wasn’t with her.  She checked in the other room and, wouldn’t you know it, her sister was sitting at Jesus feet taking part in the Bible study.  “Umm, excuse me, Teacher.  Have you noticed that my LAZY sister is sitting here instead of helping me fix this meal?  Would you please tell her to get off of her backside and help me?” [that quote came from the Brian International Version-ha!]  “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” [Luke 10:41-42]  If I had been Martha I probably would have returned to the kitchen to fume and pout in private.

I’ve always felt like Martha gets a bum rap (or bad rap as some refer to it).  There was nothing wrong with her choosing to be hospitable to Jesus and His disciples.  It’s actually commendable.  No doubt Martha had a heart of gold.  How many people do you know that will invite (no less than) 13 people over to feed and take care of?  When her workaholic tendencies became the most important thing she loses sight of what was really important.  But Jesus used that moment to teach her a valuable lesson.  The importance of balance in our lives.  I’m learning there is value in being Mary AND Martha.  I see the importance of taking care of and serving others.  Servanthood is a cornerstone of Christianity.  But I also have learned it’s just as important to take care of me.  The perfect example of this ideal can be experienced when you fly in a plane.  You hear the same announcement on every flight.  “If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance secure your mask first and then assist the other person..”  If you work your fingers to the bone and become ‘burned out’ you’re no good to anyone.

Closing remarks and encouragement:  To all you workaholics out there (and you know who you are)-take care of yourself!  It’s okay to do something for YOU every now and then.  You can’t give to others if you have nothing to give.  Doesn’t matter if you’re a pastor, teacher, social worker, daycare worker, stay at home Mom/Dad…the list goes on and on.  Sometimes it’s necessary to just sit at His feet and let Him minister to you.  There’s no shame in that.  Always secure your mask first!

Have a blessed week, my friends!!