When Jesus was in Bethany
he was a welcome guest
within the home of Lazarus,
and there he stayed to rest.
Good Martha hurried off to cook
some food for him to eat;
but Mary, searching, found a stool
and sat down at his feet.

While Mary listened to the words
that Jesus had to say,
her sister, busy at her work,
sent angry looks her way.
Said Martha, "Jesus, don't you care
that I must work alone?
Why do you let her sit and talk,
her idleness condone?"

"Now, Martha, Martha," Jesus said,
"when I come here to dine,
don't waste your time on special food.
A simple meal is fine.
Come, sit with Mary at my side
and feed upon my words,
that you may fill your mind and heart
with all that you have heard."

Sometimes, like Martha, we may be
too zealous in a chore,
like Mary, leave a task undone
for needs we can't ignore.
We long to find a balance, God,
in living out each day.
Help us be faithful in our work,
yet take the time to pray.