Mary and Martha are sisters who lived in the village of Bethany. Lord Jesus visited their home; Mary chose to sit at the feet of the Lord and listen. Martha was busy serving and was frustrated. She complained to the Lord, asking him to send his sister to help her. Lord said that Mary had chosen the one thing needful, that will not be snatched from her. (Luke 10:38-42) Martha was experiencing stress and burnout, hence she blamed all for her despair.
You do not care: First, she blamed the lord that he did not care. She assessed her situation and thought no one cared for her, including the Son of God. Why should the Lord visit her home if He did not care for her?
Abandoned: She felt abandoned by her sister and blamed her. Blaming Mary for her discomfort, loneliness, and stress. If she had volunteered to help her, perhaps she would not be feeling upset.
I am alone: In ancient households, there were servants or slaves. Perhaps, there was no servant maid to assist her. Probably, they were not able to afford one or they had left. Hence, she blamed her economic situation for being unable to hire a servant.
Work: Martha felt overwhelmed by her work, as he had guests that day. So, she was upset, worried, and troubled about many things. She blamed the increased work, because of increased guests. Mary neither understood nor extended a helping hand.
The sin of self-pity: This is one of the subtle sins, that is deceitful and could harden the heart. (Hebrews 3:13) According to John Piper, self-pity is the other side of boasting and both spring from pride. Boasting is the voice of pride in the heart of the strong and admiration for success; Self-pity is the voice of pride in the heart of the weak, and admiration for suffering.
Antidot: Lord Jesus told Martha to focus on one thing, being in the presence of God and listening to His voice. That will help her to reorder her priorities and receive grace for her life’s sustenance.
Am I a self-surrendered disciple or a victim of self-pity?