Sisters at the Table
Luke 10:38–42
Sisters at the Table
Begin in silence…
Close your eyes and sit quietly for a few moments before beginning today’s session. Take some deep breaths, open your hands as a posture of receptiveness before the Lord.
Set the scene…
For today’s scripture reading, let’s set the scene in our minds. We are at a casual dinner in Bethany, a town Jesus frequently retreats to during his ministry. Envision pulling up a seat at the table in the home of Jesus’ close friends, Martha and Mary. Keep this scene in mind as you interact with the passage below.
Today’s Practice: Lectio Divina
Read aloud or listen to Luke 10:38–42. Picture the passage in your mind.
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 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!" "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."
Pause for a moment before reading below.
These verses in Luke often come up when discussing women in the Bible. It is easy to divide the main characters into “Busy Marthas” and “Faithful Marys.” However, the cultural context behind the passage highlights a different aspect of the story. While Martha fulfills the traditional role of a Jewish woman, Mary takes a seat to learn as a disciple at the feet of Jesus. In Jewish culture, no rabbi includes women as students. Jesus sets a new standard of inclusivity for women in this scene.
It is important to highlight Martha’s role of serving the household is equally valuable. This meal is likely one of many she prepared for Jesus. Here he does not admonish her for asking for her sister’s help; he empathizes with her workload. His relationship with both Mary and Martha is familial. He loves both of them deeply.
Meditate
Read the passage aloud or listen to it again. This time, pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out to you.
What does this word or phrase mean to you at this moment?
Respond
Imagine yourself again seated at the table with Jesus and his friends. Think about Jesus enjoying his dinner company, including you. His deep love for everyone there is the same love he has for you.
Read or listen to the passage one more time. How has your view of Mary and Martha shifted?
Contemplate
Sit in silence again. Repeat the following breath prayer a few times:
(Inhale) All-loving Father
(Exhale) Help me rest at your table.
Resolve
Make note of the roles that women assume in your family, your church or community. Are there traditions or long-held beliefs that keep women in these roles?
For Further Reflection
Learn more about the food and meals that Martha may have served Jesus. Search on the web for recipes from the time of Jesus.