As we dive into the maturity that comes with joy, I can’t help but consider Mary. In Luke chapter 10, Mary has a sister named Martha. They are both eagerly anticipating a visit from Jesus, but we notice that Martha’s anticipation turns into anxiety, while Mary’s anticipation turns into joy.
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
— Luke 10:38–42
If I’m being honest, I’m more like Martha by default, focusing on the busy and distracting circumstances of the world rather than just being grateful for the moment.
Whenever you read scripture and notice that someone is at another person’s feet, they are typically in awe. Tending to someone’s feet represented respect and reverence in appreciation of what had already been done rather than continually looking for what was next. It’s too easy to seek the hands of Jesus rather than wanting to wash the feet of Jesus. The hand usually represents authority. The scripture passage above ends with Jesus telling Mary’s decision was best because of its posture. Mary wasn’t seeking the power of Christ’s authority. She was just enamored with His purpose. No one’s life is perfect, so I’m sure Mary could have considered asking for some miracle or making a well-deserving prayer request. But Mary’s posture changed her perspective in a way we can benefit from as well. If God doesn’t do anything else, He’s done enough. Mary knew God’s grace was sufficient. In other words, it covered (and continues to cover) what’s right, what’s wrong, and everything in between. Paul has the same posture in Romans 8:
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
— Romans 8:28
Notice that he says, “And we know…” Not “we consider,” “we contemplated,” or “we assumed,” but “we know.” My prayer today is that we posture ourselves and find assurance in knowing without a shadow of a doubt that God’s grace is sufficient in our lives.