Listening and Serving in Jesus’ Presence

Luke 10:38-42

The Big Idea

Serving can be good, and listening to Jesus matters too. Ask God to help you notice what is most important in each moment.

The Bible Story

Jesus Visits Mary and Martha

Luke 10:38–42 tells how Martha welcomed Jesus into her home. Her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to his teaching. Martha was distracted by serving and asked Jesus whether he cared that Mary had left her to serve alone. She asked him to tell Mary to help her. Jesus addressed Martha by name, saying that she was worried and troubled about many things, but one thing was necessary. He said Mary had chosen the good portion, which would not be taken away from her. The passage highlights attentive priorities in this situation. It does not teach that practical service has no value, or that Martha was a bad person. Both sisters should be presented fairly: Martha was serving, and Mary was listening.

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

A balanced scene shows Jesus speaking, Mary listening at his feet, and Martha nearby after serving, giving all three people a meaningful place in the conversation. The focus is Jesus’ teaching about priorities in this moment.

Talk together

Talk about it

What was Mary doing at Jesus’ feet?
Why did Jesus speak to Martha about worry and priorities?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to help children discuss listening, service, hospitality, and concern without labeling either sister as simply good or bad. Invite children to name ways they can listen carefully and help others. Remind them that Jesus’ answer addresses Martha’s worry in this moment, not every act of service.

Source note