Saturday, December 16, 2006 - Mary of Bethany
This block is "Mary's Choice" for Mary of Bethany. Mary was the daughter of Simon the Leper and sister to Martha and Lazarus. Mary was often misunderstood for the choices she made. When she was sitting at Jesus' feet, listening and learning His truths, her sister thought she should be cooking and serving. When she sat patiently for Jesus to come to Bethany after Lazarus died, it was thought she should be running to meet Him. When she poured a very expensive perfume on Jesus' feet, she was called wasteful. Mary's choices, while maybe not the post "politically correct" (did they use that phrase then?!), were choices she made out of her love for Jesus. I'm often misunderstood for the choices I make for Jesus. Everything from homeschooling, to alternative medicine, to my non-participation in traditions of man, to the foods I do or don't eat. While I sometimes wish I had a little more Martha in me, it is ok being Mary. I can only pray that my life pleases the Lord as much as Mary's did.
The blue fabric in the quilt block is for peace and truth. The floral reminded me of the spikenard plant that the expensive perfume Mary used was from, used in verses of love in Song of Solomon as well as the ladies that annointed Jesus feet.
You can read more about Mary of Bethany in Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:1-11; Luke 10; John 11-12.
Comments
Sunday, December 17, 2006 - Beautiful !
Posted by Susan
I always remember the difference between Martha and Mary by association. For Martha I think of Martha Stewart, the home maker. What bothers me about Martha in biblical times is not that she likes this tidy or that she forgets what is important other than her to do list, it's that she is critical of Mary. Another wonderful block ! I can't see your blog entries anymore from my friends page so I'll check back often to read your entries. I love the new look of your blog, with the quilt background and the Welcome header.
Love,
Susan
Sunday, December 17, 2006 - This is gorgeous ...
Posted by my3feistykids
I love the blue fabric you chose. I loved your reflections on Mary and Martha (if only each of us could be a perfect balance of the two!) I also loved how you related it to your own life. I did not know you practiced some types of alternative medicine. That is fascinating! It is wonderful to see all the different ways God's leading blossoms in your life.
Monday, December 18, 2006 - Beautiful!
Posted by PeakmoreAcademy
very nice block! your quilting blocks have been SEW inspiring!!
