In Bethany, what might the Lord have said
Had Martha never questioned Mary’s ways;
If Mary were the one to speak instead?
A very different question she might raise:
“Lord, don’t you care that Martha will not sit
And be attentive to your tender voice”?
“O Mary, Mary, this I will admit:
It’s true that you have made the better choice.
But just for now let’s let your sister be.
She’s used to working hard for every guest;
Her nature’s one of hospitality;
In time in me alone she’ll find her rest.”
For sins of men he came not to condemn;
But silently to bear the weight of them.
—Joseph Mirra
Image by Michel Wal via Creative Commons. Image cropped.
