Are you a Martha or a Mary?
I’ve been thinking about the story of Martha and Mary. You know it, right? The one where Jesus comes to visit, and one sister is frantically trying to get dinner ready while the other one just sits and listens to Him?
Here’s the passage:
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.
Luke 10:38–42 (NIV):
But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Let’s pause there. Did you catch that? Jesus gently corrects Martha. He doesn’t scold her. He knows she’s doing something good—serving, preparing, maybe even showing love in her own way. But He’s pointing out something deeper:
Mary chose presence over productivity.
Mary chose connection over chaos.
Mary chose the better thing.
Whew. That hits me where I live. As someone who thrives on checklists, goals, and “getting it done,” I’m definitely a Martha. But I want more Mary moments in my life.
So, I made a list to help myself—and maybe you, too—be more like Mary:
1. Sit down and be still. Even five minutes of sitting in silence (no phone, no planner, no laundry!) can restore your soul. You don’t always have to be doing.
2. Choose people over tasks. The to-do list will still be there. But your friend’s story, your child’s tears, or your coworker’s sigh may be your cue to connect, listen, and just be with them.
3. Make time to listen—really listen. Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet, listening.” How often do we give someone our full attention? Your presence is one of the greatest gifts you can give.
4. Let some things go. Martha was “worried and upset about many things.” Sound familiar? Not everything has to be done right now. Ask yourself: “Is this essential?” Often, it’s not.
5. Protect your sacred moments. Mary’s choice “will not be taken away from her.” That quiet walk, that prayer time, that heart-to-heart with someone you love—those are sacred. Guard them with love.
In a world that celebrates hustle, Mary reminds us that presence is powerful. You don’t have to earn love, respect, or peace through endless doing. Sometimes the most spiritual, healthy, and loving thing you can do is stop…and just be.
Let’s be more like Mary this week. Together.
On your side,
Catherine Jewell
The Career Passion® Coach
P.S. Did this resonate with you? Hit reply and tell me about your “Mary moment” or when you realized you were slipping into Martha mode. I’d love to hear from you.
