“Lord, don’t You care?”

What kind of question is that? Give your head a shake! Who’s gonna ask such a question of the God who has declared that His glory is seen as we know that He is in essence and being “a compassionate and gracious God . . . abounding in faithful love and truth” (Ex. 34:6)? Who’s gonna ask that kind of question? Evidently, someone distracted by their many tasks.

[Jesus] entered a village, and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who also sat at the Lord’s feet and was listening to what He said. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks, and she came up and asked, “Lord, don’t You care that my sister has left me to serve alone? So tell her to give me a hand.”

(Luke 10:38-40 CSB)

Distracted by her many tasks, Martha came up and asked, “Lord don’t You care?”

Woe is me. I’ve opened my home to Him. I’m putting out my best for Him. But I could sure use a little help. A little help would be appreciated. Doesn’t He notice that, while I’m busy serving, my sister’s intent on being still? That while I’m putting out, she’s just taking in? That while I could sure use a helping hand, she’s content to be sitting on her’s? Lord, don’t You care?

Love Martha. I probably would say more Martha’s are needed in this consumer-oriented, spectator-catering age. But the danger of being a Martha, apparently, is that you can busy yourself to the point of asking some pretty dumb questions, if you’d but pause long enough to think about it.

Seems to me Marthas can be their best when they take their cue from the Marys. When they take the time and seize the opportunities to just sit at the Lord’s feet and listen. When busyness intentionally makes space to “Be still” (Ps. 46:10). When manic execution factors in time for quiet meditation. When “to do” lists are submitted to “to be” priorities — as in, to be in the presence of Jesus. When all that we have to worry about is subjected to the one thing that is necessary — sitting at the Savior’s feet.

The Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken away from her.”

(Luke 10:41-42 CSB)

Martha wasn’t doing the wrong stuff. But Mary made the right choice. Martha was doing what needed to be done. But Mary recognized that one thing is necessary. And it would not be taken away from her.

Distracted by many tasks? Oh, to beware!

For yes, He cares!

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

(Matthew 11:28 CSB)

By His grace. For His glory.