The image of Martha as the “doer” and Mary as the “thinker” or “pray-er” might be one way of looking at the story of Jesus receiving hospitality in their home. However, when you look at what Jesus says to her another interpretation presents itself: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing.” What Martha seems to be worried about is keeping Mary in her proper place, in the kitchen. The “one thing” we need is to use whatever gifts we have to bring God’s love into the world. Fitting women or people of color or immigrants,or anyone into stereotypical roles without considering the particular gifts and talents God gives them violates the divine order.
JULY292020
By Church Staff
