Read the passage several times through, slowly and prayerfully. It might help to use your imagination to picture the scene. At the end of the text you will find helpful background information in our ‘Setting the Scene’ section.

As you read, look out for shockers and blockers.

Shockers – a phrase, word, image or something from the text that resonates, stands out or connects with you.

Blockers – something from the text that raises questions for you.

Luke 10.38–42

Mary and Martha

The Lord and his disciples were travelling along and came to a village. When they got there, a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat down in front of the Lord and was listening to what he said. Martha was worried about all that had to be done. Finally, she went to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it bother you that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to come and help me!” The Lord answered, “Martha, Martha! You are worried and upset about so many things, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is best, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Setting the Scene

The village is Bethany – about two miles from Jerusalem. Martha and Mary lived together in the house. Martha is possibly the owner of the house and the impression we get is that she is the older sister.
Hospitality was culturally important. People were expected to look after travellers. Both Mary and Martha are equally responsible for looking after guests.
Being a hostess involved preparing an elaborate meal for guests and here there were many – Jesus and his disciples! With much to prepare, Martha was busy, distracted and upset that Mary was not helping her.
Jesus wanted the best for Martha, and she was in danger of missing it. He would not be in her home for long, and he wanted her to be with him, not rushing around serving him.

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