Mary and Martha Moments

in

You know the age old story and debate between Mary and Martha. The ultimate question, "Are you a Mary or a Martha?" There's pros and cons to both. I can remember the sermons that were taught when I was younger pointing us towards being like Mary, sitting at Jesus's feet and devouring every word. It was not until this past year that I was challenged to look at the life and heart of Martha in those fateful moments.

Which is when I realized that oftentimes we are not one or the other, we are both.
But here are just a few Mary and Martha Moments from England.
To The Martha's:
When two of the church pastors welcomed us at the airport in hugs and by name.
When my host opened the door in smiles to greet us, offered us tea, and welcomed us to shower, sleep and eat.
When I didn't have a drink in my hand and instantly someone would appear with water, tea, or juice all for me to choose from.
When a new friend offers to drive you to another city so you can explore.
When a new friend takes you down country roads to experience the 'stereotypical' english countryside.
When a new friend takes you on day adventures to see other sights.
When a new friend goes with you and acts as a tour guide.
When a friend saves the last of the berries for you for breakfast.
When a friend gets you a smoothie.
When a friend ensures there is veggie food for you to eat.
When a friend lets you take the first shower after a long day.
When a new friend takes you drives you to a whole other country to take you surfing.
When a new friend goes exploring in a new city with you.
When a friend takes the stereotypical tourist photos for you.
When a family invites you into theirs.
When a friends makes you home made traditional food.
When a friend is a friend.
To The Mary's:
The friend who listens to your story.
The friend who listens to what is puling at your heart.
The friend who speaks wisdom and truth over you.
The friend who hears your hearts desire and celebrates with you.
The friend who listens to you and God when you speak.
The friend who shares wisdom.
The friend who does not judge but listens and guides.
The friend who stays up way past midnight to talk about life and theology.
The friend who shares her story as you share yours.
The friend who speaks life into the passions you have.
The friend who asks you questions about your life.
The friend who wants to get to know you.
The friend who encourages you.
The friend who laughs and smiles and jokes around with you.
The friend who prays for you.
The friend who prays with you.
The friend who is a friend.
To both my Mary's and my Martha's:
Thank you. I have always known that in my life I am often times either Mary or Martha in a situation. You showed me that you can easily be both. Sure, some situations ask for being one or the other, like hosting a pudding party or listening to a friend. But deep down, in your heart of hearts, you are both and you do both wonderfully.
You life live the way that Jesus has called each and everyone of you to do. You are raw, real, loving, loved, honest, beautiful, friendly, kind and full of passion.
Thank you for showing me how to be a servant and how to live for God in all that you do.