Cooking with Martha – Sitting Down with Mary

Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
– Psalm 1: 1-2 (NIV)

The first verse of Psalm 1 describes the things that just aren’t done by someone blessed by the Lord. Those blessed by the Lord keep themselves out of trouble by not hanging around with those who are headed straight for it.

In contrast to what he does not do, the blessed man will:

delight in the law of the Lord
meditate on the law during the day
meditate on the law during the night

It is difficult to get into too much trouble when you are filling your heart and mind with the delight and truth of God’s word. Note that it is not enough just to keep yourself out of trouble! The real blessing comes not just from keeping your nose clean, but from taking joy in hearing from God.

The first verse of this psalm describes Martha, a woman who did all the right things and served Jesus. Martha didn’t spend her time on what was harmful or trivial, but rather what was useful. She cleaned and cooked and served those she cared for. In this respect her life was very admirable. But Martha seemed to be missing out on the one thing that Mary excelled at.

The second verse describes Martha’s sister Mary, who sat at the feet of Jesus, listened to his words, and delighted in his company. Mary loved sitting at the feet of Jesus and listening to him. This is the second step to the truly blessed life that the psalmist describes.

We need to find joy in the words of God. We need to find our sustenance in the words of God. This is the way to happiness and blessedness.