How many sermons have we heard, or lessons have we read, that pit sister against sister, and faith against works? Once again, we have fallen victim to our own tendencies to divide into categories of right and wrong. Meanwhile, we KNOW that both contemplation and service are essential parts of the life of faith. So then what’s the lesson in this text? Looking at Jesus’ validating response to Martha, as well as his unwavering support to Mary, I suspect it’s less about who’s right and who’s wrong; rather, the lesson lies hidden in our proclivity to “keep score” and judge the actions of others through the lens of our own way of being in the world.
This teaching was preached at Knox Presbyterian Church in Oakville, Ontario, Canada by The Reverend Jacquelyn Foxall, on this 2nd Sunday in LENT March 16th, 2025.
Associated Scripture: Gospel of Luke 10:38-42 ‘At the Home of Martha and Mary’
Everything [in] Between: “Faith & Works”
