The house is full of people; Jesus and his disciples are there; Mary, the young woman, sitting at her friend’s feet with the disciples around; Martha, the generous one, is in her kitchen, stoking the fire, checking the pots and pans, getting up, passing and going over before the group to set the table, bustling about for everyone.
The Holy Man has the young, unmarried Mary listening within the men’s group.
A master-disciple scene so unusual for the customs of the time that it almost seems like a miracle. All prejudices about women are blown up and broken. The Jesus she knew speaks this time as the teacher, and I imagine her spellbound as if for the first time. We all know the miracle of the first time.
Then, Eternity is found in Jesus’ every word; she is enthralled. She knew him, but this time, it was clear: God speaks in the house of friendship in Bethany.
Martha notices and tells Jesus to set Mary straight. Affectionately, Jesus replies to her: Martha, you worry too much. Jesus encourages her generous heart, not her frantic efficiency.
Martha listens yet doesn’t stop for a minute; Mary, on the other hand, sits, her eyes fixed, her gaze liquid, and realizes Jesus, the friend in the house, is the Son of God. Martha fidgets; serving is the only objective.
You have only one transformative opportunity when Jesus speaks. Busy-bees, stop and listen; only one thing is crucial: Lord Jesus, speak, your servant is listening.