#religion/christianity %% run start `` %%  %% run end %%   The story of Mary and Martha highlights the different ways the two sisters interacted with Jesus during his visit to their home in Bethany. Martha was busy with preparations and serving, focusing on making everything perfect for Jesus, their special guest. In contrast, Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to him. Martha, feeling overwhelmed and possibly slighted by her sister's lack of help, expressed her frustration to Jesus, expecting him to sympathize with her and ask Mary to assist. However, Jesus gently explained that Mary had made the better choice. He emphasized that the most important thing wasn't the preparation or the perfection of the visit but rather spending time with him and listening to his teachings. From this story, we learn several important lessons: 1. Prioritizing what is truly important: Jesus indicated that Mary's choice to listen and learn was more valuable than getting caught up in the details of hosting. 2. The value of presence and attentiveness: Being present and attentive to Jesus (or what we value most) is often more significant than being busy with tasks. 3. Balance in duties and spiritual life: While serving and being hospitable are important, they should not overshadow the importance of spiritual nourishment and personal growth. > [!bible]- [Luke 10:38-42 - NIV](https://bolls.life/NIV/42/10/) > At the Home of Martha and Mary<br/> > 1. As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. > 2. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. > 3. 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!” > 4. “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, > 5. but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”