Today’s Gospel reading comes from John chapter 12 where Jesus is visiting Martha and Mary in their home. Luke also recounts the same story in chapter 10 and in reading that passage I was struck with a deep connection to Martha. In both books we see that as Jesus dines with these women, Martha takes the role of server and Mary sits at the feet of Jesus.

I am a “doer.” Resting and relaxing feel like work to me because I am so accustom to moving, cooking, picking up after my toddler, folding laundry and attending to the rest of my never-ending to-do list. If I’m being honest, I take pride in my constant activity and so I feel I can relate to Martha in this story. Just like Martha, I too can become frustrated or critical of those who disengage with the “work.”

This story, however, gave me great perspective. While I might have stewed quietly to myself, Martha came right out and grumbled about Mary’s idleness to Jesus. With wisdom and sensitivity, Jesus responds, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42).

That is when it clicked for me—being at the feet of Jesus like Mary is where I need to be. In this Lenten season as we prepare to celebrate the resurrection, my time should be spent enjoying Jesus. Work is good, except when it takes away from my relationship with God. If I am distracted by a messy house instead of focused and captivated by my Father, then my priorities and my effort is in the wrong place. I pray that not only will I begin to spend more time anointing the feet of Jesus, but that I will also show more grace to those who are already there.