THOUGH Our LORD knew that the Jewish Rulers had formed a design to put him to death, he still resolved to go to Jerusalem, where they held their council; for he was not afraid of them, because he knew they could not hurt him, till he should, of his own will, yield himself into their hands. As JESUS was going from Jerusalem, he entered into a certain village, called Bethany ;* and a woman, named Martha, received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who, as soon as our LORD entered, laid aside all worldly business and sat down at his feet to hear his word. But Martha, intent upon giving a feast to her guest, employed herself in family affairs; and being cumbered with much serving, she came and said to JESUS, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister leaveth me to serve alone? bid her, therefore, that she help me. And JESUS answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary has chosen that good part which shall not be taken from her. The one thing needful for every person is, Religion, which ought to have the first place in our thoughts; and we should take every opportunity of improving ourselves in it. Some time after this, Mary, being at a supper to which JESUS was invited, took a box of perfumed ointment, which had cost a great deal of money, and poured it on his head, according to the custom of the times, as a mark of respect; and she anointed his feet also, and wiped them with her hair: after which she waited upon our LORD at table as a servant, instead of sitting down as one of the company, which showed that she honoured him very much. |