38
As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home.
39
She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said.
40
But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. "Master, don't you care that my sister has abandoned the kitchen to me? Tell her to lend me a hand."
41
The Master said, "Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing.
42
One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it - it's the main course, and won't be taken from her."
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.