Fellowship

…Jesus and His disciples…came to a village (Bethany) where…Martha…(her) sister, called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet…Martha was distracted by all the preparations…asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?…[Jesus said] “Martha, Martha, …you are worried and upset about many things…but few things are needed…indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better…

Luke 10:38-42

Martha and Mary were sisters who lived with their brother, Lazarus, in Bethany, on the other side of the Mount of Olives from Jerusalem. Jesus loved these siblings and stayed with them when He came to Jerusalem. This time, Jesus brought His Disciples (the 12) with Him. It was customary, in Jesus day, as it is today, to feed and fellowship with guests. The women of the house would be expected to prepare the food. This time though, Mary chose to spend her time sitting at the feet of Jesus and listening to Him talk with those in the room. There must have been a great deal of food preparation with so many visitors. Unfortunately, Martha, feeling overwhelmed with her tasks, thought Mary should be with her in the kitchen. But, Martha directed her irritation with Mary toward Jesus since Mary was at His feet. Her anger shows in her “demand” to Jesus to tell Mary to get up and help in the kitchen. Jesus, knowing all people, noting Martha being “upset about many things,” says that there is only one priority that is all important. He told Martha that Mary had chosen the “better” priority and her communing with Him and the others in the room would “not be taken away from her.” Fellowship is an important part of Christian living. Christians are brothers and sisters in Christ and gathering to enjoy one another is a good way to bond with one another. In such gatherings, the duties associated with that gathering should be shared by each one in the group and not fall upon a “host” who may be providing the place for the gathering. A day is coming when all Christians will be gathered in Heaven. There, we will be in intimate fellowship with our Savior and Lord, Jesus, to glorify Him and enjoy Him eternally. In this life, we have many opportunities to “practice” our fellowship skills with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us do so in joy and good spirit with one another.

Source: S C Ball February 11, 2023