Luke 10:38-42 (NRSV)
Read Luke 10:38-42 on biblegateway.com
Verse 38Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Verse 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. Verse 40But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." Verse 41But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; Verse 42there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."
Devotion
Whatever her faults, the one thing Martha did not miss was welcome. Most would say it is one of the "better parts" of attending a church service – the welcome may be as important as the Word. Paul says in Romans 15, "Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you."
Many congregations (and members) omit a sincere and hearty welcome. It counts for more than we think. A weak welcome might mean the Word is not heard. Thanks to Martha, who then got distracted, Mary got to listen attentively. Christianity needs both. People need both. Offer them to someone today – good welcome and good news. These "sisters" might make someone's day.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, you are welcome in my life because you welcomed me once and renewed that warm acceptance many times. Give me words to welcome others as you do. Amen.