Finding Stillness in a Busy WorldSample

A Delicate Balance

There’s a delicate balance between work and volunteerism. This balance holds the tension in Christian circles. On one hand we are taught that we are God’s workmanship and are directed to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). And on the other hand, we believe that God’s grace can’t be earned by works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Then there’s the tension of “faith without works is dead”(James 2:26) meaning that faith by itself isn’t enough unless it inspires us to do good works (James 2:17). Just like breath is to the body, good works are vital to faith.

So which is it? It’s both. The tale of two sisters with opposite agendas is simply teaching us that we have a choice to make when it comes to spending time with Jesus. There’s the work part of us that collides with the worship part of us. This story implies that this visitation to Martha and Mary’s home is focused on the worship part.

It’s true that, personality-wise, the choice may have come easier to Mary than it did to Martha. Mary seems more laid back and more prone to be caught up in the opportunities of each day. Whereas, Martha was more dedicated to getting the list of tasks crossed off. It’s not known what their hearts were hungry for that day. Was Martha yearning for a break from her overloaded routine or needed validation? Or was Mary lacking in motivation to serve and acted on a selfish whim?

We shouldn’t shirk our opportunities to volunteer or serve, at the same time we shouldn’t raise our hand to fill every open spot. We should consider the choices that are best fitted for the gifts we’ve been given. We simply can’t fill every role, even though many of us try. We must work from a place of worship and love for Jesus. Interestingly, when we are working from a place of love we are giving “healthy” service.

When we try to go for every position, we’ll burn out very quickly. Our service becomes about ourselves and drawing upon our own strength. The truth is I’ve been both Mary and Martha. And I’ve discovered that Jesus is always right! Working from a place of love is the …one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:41)