One Bible passage that I return to often is Luke 10:38-42. Jesus went to the home of sister, Martha and Mary. Martha worked to serve her guests. Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened. Martha asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. Jesus gently admonished Martha being so anxious and troubled.
I've heard many discussions about this passage. But recently a new insight. Jesus did not point out Martha's serving as the wrong thing. What did He say? "Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things." (ESV) Martha's focus was on getting all the work done. I think in that moment, she may have forgotten why she was doing her serving. Mary was focused on Jesus. Martha was focused on the work.
Does that mean that Martha couldn't use her own gifts of serving to worship and honor Jesus. No...but is that what she was doing? Jesus didn't mention Martha's work; He mentioned her attitude and anxiety. The anxiety was getting in the way of her servant's heart. Doing it all "right" overtook the joy of serving the Savior.
Anxious and troubled
Weary within
Distracted with so much to do
Come to the Savior
He'll give you rest
Sit and listen to Him.
Anxious and troubled
Beaten by life
Defeated, bloodied, and lost
Come to the Savior
Receive His peace
Sit and listen to Him.
(Scott Wiley, 2025)
