Mary Chooses the Good Portion

Luke 10:38-42

The Big Idea

When many things pull at you, make time to listen to Jesus. Serving others matters too, but worry should not crowd out attention to him.

The Bible Story

Jesus Visits Mary and Martha

Luke 10:38-42 tells how Martha welcomed Jesus into her home. While Martha served, her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to his word. Martha, concerned that she was serving alone, asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. Jesus addressed Martha by name, saying that she was worried and troubled about many things, while one thing was necessary. He said Mary had chosen the good portion, which would not be taken away from her. This passage presents both sisters fairly: Martha welcomes and serves, while Mary listens attentively. Jesus’ answer highlights Mary’s priority in this moment; it does not condemn all practical service or make Martha a bad person.

Themes

Avoiding unfair stereotypes about service or listening Concern and distraction Listening to Jesus Priorities Service and hospitality

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Mary sits at Jesus’ feet listening as Jesus explains to Martha that Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her. Martha is present and engaged, not excluded or shamed.

Talk together

Talk about it

What was Mary doing at Jesus’ feet?
How can you listen to Jesus when you feel busy or worried?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to discuss listening, priorities, hospitality, and concern. Invite children to notice that Martha is not bad and Mary is not lazy. Encourage practical service while helping children see the value of pausing to hear Jesus. Avoid acting out or teaching a literal meaning for “good portion.”

Source note

From this passage

Luke 10:41-42 · Mary and Martha

Mary sits at Jesus’ feet listening as Jesus explains to Martha that Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her. Martha is present and engaged, not excluded or shamed.