This post is Day 21 in a series of studies about “Mary’s of the Bible”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Mary’s of the Bible – Day 21

On our last day of looking at this particular Mary from the Bible we find the happy continuation of the story. A celebration dinner after the return from the dead of Lazarus, her brother. The two sisters wanted to celebrate and to repay Jesus for the miracle they had witnessed.

John 12:2-3

Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honour. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

The Thought

On our last day of looking at this particular Mary from the Bible we find the happy continuation of the story. A celebration dinner after the return from the dead of Lazarus, her brother. The two sisters wanted to celebrate and to repay Jesus for the miracle they had witnessed. Martha’s way of doing that would be, as always, to provide food. A delicious dinner was given in honour of Jesus The Healer.

Mary’s reaction was different. Her actions have been the subject of many sermons and many books. And many believers have spent much time thinking about what they would do to thank Jesus for such a miracle.

Luke’s account of this story is slightly different. It doesn’t mention the death of Lazarus, but does mention Mary’s action which lead to criticism from her sister who was busy as always in the kitchen. Martha was getting flustered and frustrated. I can imagine she was very capable, but feeling that she would like to be sitting listening to Jesus the teacher too. As is often the case for most of us, Martha complained about those in the family who were doing nothing!

Jesus’ gentle rebuke of Martha is a good reminder for all of us. “Martha, Martha,” The Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42).

Action

Read Luke 10 today and give some thought to your own personal priorities.

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