Daily Bread

1. Martha was distracted (38-40)

Jesus and his disciples were welcomed at the home of Martha and Mary. Both had a close relationship with Jesus. Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened to what he said. As a responsible and loving host, Martha was busy preparing food and the home for Jesus and the disciples. Martha was doing something good but it distracted her to the point of annoyance. She complained to Jesus and asked him to tell Mary to help.

2. Mary chose what is better (41-42)

Jesus gently pointed out that Martha was worried and upset about many things. She was stressed out. Jesus told her not to worry about many things and he would not tell Mary to help her. Jesus implied that Martha ought to keep preparations simple and then she could also listen like Mary. In the same way, we too, should not be so busy doing many "good" things that we do not have time to listen to Jesus. Instead our priority should be to listen to Jesus through his word and in prayer.