The Better Part
Family and Friendship Relationships with Martha and Mary 

Jesus' Story 

As Jesus approaches the home of his friends, he is welcomed by Martha.  This is surely welcoming site for Jesus who is deeply involved in ministering to others and surely is looking for time to be with his friends.  In nurturing and loving others, Jesus is looking to be nurtured and supported by the wonderful friendship of Martha and Mary.

Was Jesus expecting to be put right in the middle between Martha's requesting him to have Mary help serve and Mary's just wanting to be with Jesus?  If he is like most of us after real busy days, do we wanted to settle a sibling relationship?  Is Jesus asking Martha to join them and not to worry about getting the meal served?  Is he saying friendship and love is more important?  It seems, Jesus is say that friendship and love is essential for living and it will not be taken way as it is truly the better part! 

In friendship, this is their opportunity to catch up and share what is happening in their lives.  To be present to each other and give to each other in friendship, kindness, and love.  Yes, we do not always think of Jesus as needing anything, much less what we can give him.  As a human being who is Divine, Jesus is looking for the human relationship of friendship and love.  Later in the Garden, was Jesus not asking the Apostles to be with him an hour?