Scripture Stories
Martha and Mary—Choosing what’s most important


Luke 10:38–42

1:28

Martha and Mary

Choosing what’s most important

Martha welcoming Jesus and His disciples.

Martha lived in a village called Bethany. When Jesus and His disciples came to Bethany, Martha welcomed them in her home.

Luke 10:38

Martha serving her guests.

While Jesus taught, Martha was very busy serving her guests. Her sister, Mary, sat close to Jesus and listened to His words.

Luke 10:39–40

Martha talking to Jesus.

Martha was not happy that she was doing all the work alone. She thought Mary should be helping instead of listening to Jesus. Martha asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her.

Luke 10:40

Jesus responding to Martha.

Jesus could see how hard Martha was working. He told her that He noticed she was worried about many things.

Luke 10:41

Jesus teaching Martha and Mary.

Then Jesus explained that some things are more important than others. Mary, He said, had made a good choice to listen to His words. The things she was learning from Jesus would never be taken away from her.

Luke 10:42