“Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you…” – John 6:27 (KJV)
The biblical account of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42 depicts sitting at Jesus’ feet – symbolising humble submission, faithful discipleship, and intimate communion with Christ, which bestows numerous spiritual benefits.
Sitting at Jesus’ feet is not necessarily sitting on the ground by His feet. This was the posture they took in the old days as disciples. Paul said, ‘I was brought up at the feet of Gamaliel’ (Acts 22:3).
As Mary of Bethany, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, sat at Jesus’ feet, and listened to His teaching, wanting to learn and worship, Martha was cumbered about (over-serving), and came to Him, and said, “Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? (complaining), bid her therefore that she help me.” (Luke 10:40 – KJV).
Jesus responded and told her she was worried about many things, but what her sister had chosen – intimacy and knowledge would not be taken away from her. We all have a choice to make, brethren; choose wisely.
Martha teaches us a powerful lesson: serving without presence is stress, i.e., without joy. Busyness can become a distraction from intimacy with God. Slow down, stop striving for perfection, and rest in His presence because that’s where life, peace, and true fulfilment are found. You can be faithful and hardworking, but if your heart isn’t in His presence, you miss the blessing of His nearness.
Mary reminds us that being with Jesus matters more than doing for Jesus. Jesus values presence over performance.
Today, let’s ask ourselves:
· Am I so busy doing good things that I forget to be with Jesus?
· Am I choosing activity over intimacy with Jesus?
Read: Matthew 6:33; Hebrews 4:2
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 9:1-6; Matthew 10:32-42; Matthew 11:1-15; Genesis 27; Genesis 28