Jesus Praises Mary for Responding
Today let’s continue our theme of Jesus praising and encouraging people. Look at Luke 10 where Jesus visits Mary, Martha and Lazarus at their home. Jesus is talking about reality, life and God! Mary is totally captivated:
“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.”” Luke 10:38-42
As Jesus is speaking Mary forgets about the issues of who might not be comfortable, who might need some water, what dishes might need to be done and what foot to prepare. Mary gives herself entirely to Jesus and gulps down His every word. Jesus is the Fountain of Life and Mary is drinking! (“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink!” John 7:37) Martha becomes increasingly irritated with Mary until she finally interrupts and points out, “Lord, don’t you even care that my sister is not helping me prepare lunch?” (“The Lazy slug” – my interpretation) Jesus replies, “Mary has chosen the best part and it won’t be taken from her” (paraphrase). That is high praise from the Master! And remember, Mary isn’t perfect. She sins like every other human. However, in this moment she is responding to the Holy Spirit’s drawing. Jesus greatly protects her hunger and encourages her! She is prioritizing the leading of the Spirit over all the other chores and distractions!
Truth be told, the things Martha is talking about will have to be done. But, honestly, there will be time for it later. She differentiates between things that are necessary and things that are best. And she chooses what is best and puts them first. Jesus sees it and greatly compliments her. Isn’t it interesting that Jesus praises regular people like this? It’s the kind of person that He is!
Take Away:
God Is Just Like Jesus:
The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. Jesus’ praise for Mary reveals the Father’s praise for Mary. It also reveals how both the Father and Son praise us when we respond to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
1st Commandment Prayer:
Jesus, help me daily hear your encouragement and praise so that I can continue to grow and become just like You! Lord, the law and rules don’t really help me grow in deep goodness. However Your presence and your commitment to me DO help me grow, radically! I know your conviction Jesus, but open my ears and help me hear your praises as well!