Martha usually gets a bad rap. She is the sister of Mary and Lazarus who bears the scarlet letter throughout history as being the one who is busily distracted in Jesus presence (see Luke 10:38-42). Thankfully at that moment, Jesus gave her a gentle rebuke instead of letting her continue in her misguided agenda by reminding her of the one thing that was really important. Next we see Martha in John 11 just before Jesus performs his climactic miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. But here, Martha runs to Jesus (ahead of her sister), communes with him, and declares him Lord (John 11:20-27). Finally upon Jesus return to Bethany at a dinner in his honor, Martha serves (John 12:1-2). This time, there is no indication of Jesus' correction of her actions even though her service here is moments before her sister Mary does the dramatic and unadulterated act of anointing Jesus with oil and wiping his feet with her hair!
Martha grew. Her disposition, her tendency, her make-up was to serve with her hands. She was probably a savvy homemaker and efficient at daily tasks. Jesus did not belittle this. Rather, he validated it. He simply wanted her heart to be infused with true service as her hands were busy. I've talked with many frustrated women who quickly identify themselves as "being a Martha" or "The Marta Syndrome". I think if we truly look at her growth and how she learned to serve the Lord in her own capacity and strength then that label can be worn proudly and not with defeated scorn upon oneself. Face it, we're all busy. But God does not equate busyness with sin or failure. Had Martha not served diligently and worshipped Jesus through these means at that dinner in Bethany, would there have been ample time or a hospitable environment for Jesus' glorious anointing by Mary? Her service was key to the moment and so is ours.
John 12:26
