“They made him a supper; and Martha served”
John 12:2
There are certain Bible people that we never fail to recognise. We know Martha by her busy serving. Each time we meet her we find her engaged in active duties. She represents those whose love for Christ takes the practical form. Some people like to criticise Martha; but after all her type of piety is important in this world where there is so much need for service. Beautiful as the Mary-spirit is, it would not do if all were Marys; for who would then do the work that needs so much to be done? A wife and mother, for instance, who should spend all her time in Bible-reading and prayer, giving no thought to her household duties, would not make a very happy home.
Yea, Lord! —Yet some must
serve;
Not all, with tranquil heart,
Even at thy dear
feet,
Wrapped in devotion sweet,
May sit apart.
Yea, Lord! —Yet some must bear
The burden of the day,
Its labour and its heat,
While
others at the feet
May muse and pray.
Yes, Lord! —Yet some must
do
Life’s daily task-work;
Who fain would sing must toil
Amid earth’s dust and moil.
While lips are dumb.
Yes, Lord! —Yet man must earn,
And woman bake the bread;
And some must watch and
wake
Early for others’ sake,
Who pray instead.
Yes, Lord! —Yet even thou
Hast
need of daily care.
I bring the bread and wine
To thee, O Guest Divine!
Be this my prayer.