August 20, 2021 -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Hear the Tenderness of the Savior

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Luke 10:38-42 English Standard Version

Martha had the gift of hospitality. She could make Jesus feel welcome in the family home. She also had a gift of serving, making sure needs were supplied. She became distracted—pulled in too many directions—trying to do too much rather than doing just what was needful for the circumstance. Notice how Jesus chides her. This was brought to my attention yesterday by a member of the audience while I was teaching on this passage. Jesus said Martha’s name twice. Imagine Him, with tenderness and a smile, with just the right amount of force saying her name twice. It is evidence of compassion. Martha, it seems, was exasperated. Her body language and tone may well have been forceful when she confronted Jesus. Jesus, with greatest mercy, replies and instructs.

Much-loved fellow Christian—consider how deeply Jesus loves you. He has laid down His life for you. He has put up with your sins, your anger, your habitual wrong-doing and corrects you with just the right amount of love and justice, so that you will walk in the path of righteousness. Imagine, this morning, His Shepherd’s voice calling your name, twice, with love and gentleness so that you may be drawn from wrong paths and joyfully run toward Him Who loves you.

Mighty King, Jesus, thank You for the tenderness You showed to Martha. Thank You for the great love You have for Your wandering, restless, bickering sheep. Shepherd of my soul, help me to hear Your voice this morning and respond with love to Your correction and so to walk, once again, in the way of holiness which You opened to me by Your precious blood. Amen.

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