38 As they went on their way, Jesus entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she came up to him, and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister left me to serve alone? Ask her therefore to help me.”

41 Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Luke 10:28-42 - World English Bible

There are many ways we can follow the Lord; we can proclaim the Good News and serve others. But one method usually gets overlooked; we can just listen to Jesus, like Mary did.

In the time of Jesus, the disciple sat at the feet of a teacher to learn. In Matthew's gospel, for example, Jesus taught the Beatitudes as his followers and the crowd sat below him (Matthew 5:1-12). But, the followers were male. Mary caused controversy when she stepped out of her social role as a woman to seat as a disciple. And Martha expected her sister to play the host as she did. The Lord added to the discussion when he approved of Mary's decision. Serving had merit, but hearing the Good News stood above any responsibility as host.

We all have busy lives. We tell others about our faith and we serve family, friends and community. But when do we take the time to simply listen to the Lord?

When you pray or read the Scriptures today, take a few moments just to sit in silence. What is Jesus saying to you?