• Engage

    A Fresh Perspective on Martha and Mary by Barbara Farris

    The well-known story of Jesus’ relationship with sisters Martha and Mary has a caused a great deal of consternation for worker bee women like me. I have always felt that Martha’s frustration and resulting outburst were completely justified. Who wouldn’t resent being saddled with all the work while their sister hung out with the guys around the Teacher?  Why would Jesus teach about serving others and then rebuke Martha for doing just that, and worse, defend Mary?  I came away from this story feeling like a rejected ‘Martha’ whose gifts weren’t valued or appreciated. But then I heard the story explained in a different light. What if Jesus wasn’t criticizing…