Here are some insights I gained from some fellow class members in our Gospel Doctrine class at church today. We discussed the story of Mary and Martha. I'm used to discussions about Mary and Martha essentially beginning and ending at, "Don't be like Martha by doing the labor of the day at those times when you should be feeding your spirit."

Simple enough.

I particularly enjoyed two comments today. One woman observed that Jesus himself did not bring up the issue of Martha's trouble – Martha herself brought it up. Jesus will protect our agency by allowing us to proceed however we see fit, even though we might be missing out on the "better part" of the blessings we might be receiving.

Another woman pointed out that Jesus wasn't getting after Martha for doing some of the needed chores, but rather for the fact that she was troubled by care. Whatever she was doing in that moment, her heart wasn't on Jesus. She was a bit unhappy with a perceived injustice. Could she have continued her preparations of the day, but with her heart drawn toward Jesus? Conversely, would it have been possible for Mary to sit at Jesus' feet while being mentally distracted?

I think of all the cleaning my house requires, what with the children's joyful rambunctiousness. Certainly I can do the work I need and have a heart full of gratitude toward my Savior.

And during those times when I do sit at Jesus' feet, to take time to recharge my spirit, I hope to do so as Mary, without distraction.