HELPERS IN THE KITCHEN

Many of us who re-hear the story of Jesus with Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) this weekend will be a little niggled by what seems unfairness to Martha. While she is doing the work in the kitchen, Mary is sitting still at Jesus feet, listening and learning.

Of course Martha could have dealt with it a little better, rather than venting at Jesus about why he won’t make Mary help her. Nevertheless, somebody needs to get dinner ready and Martha is it, but Jesus’ responds that Mary has, “chosen the better part.”

This poses a conundrum for us. Surely someone needs to spend the day working at a desk or on the farm or workbench (or preparing meals)? That’s what makes the world go round, what enables us to eat. And, as Paul tells us, (2 Thessalonians 3:10) we all need to do our bit to ensure the community thrives.

Jesus is teaching us here though about balance and perspective. We should work to live, not live to work.

Many of us race around busily doing “important” things so we almost get into the mindset of “I am busy therefore I am,” forgetting that whatever we do here is transitory and our relationship with him is the main game.

Sure we all have work to do, but we mustn’t prioritise our work, or other activities in our lives, over sitting at Jesus feet, listening to his word and building relationship with him.

Family and other relationships too are enriched by being able to say, “Don’t worry about xyz. This is important. Be in the moment (and we’ll all help in the kitchen later).”

Deacon Mark Kelly