Come and Sit for Awhile

I love the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) for its offering of spiritual insight: in particular, as we see Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening intently to “every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4).

Sitting teaches us that our hearts must be at rest and our minds still, before we can give God our undivided attention. When Altha and I have something important to discuss, we don’t stand in the kitchen; we sit in the living room. Preoccupation with the affairs of this world will “stand” in the way (pun intended) of quiet time with Jesus. When Jesus finished His work on earth, He sat down next to His Father (Eph. 1:20).

Sitting at someone’s feet is an act of humility. Mary positioned herself below Jesus. God waits to speak to the child-like, humble person (Matt. 11:25). Sitting as Mary did is a picture of subjection—the position of the true disciple in the presence of his Master. I don't mean to be cavalier with this comparison, but my daughter and he husband just got a dog. And the first think they taught their little puppy was to sit. Why? Sitting is the position of submission—of obedience.

Can you hear Jesus saying come and sit for awhile “and learn from Me [listen to me, submit to me, obey me] and you will find rest for your souls”? (Matt. 11:28).