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We have it —

I. CLEARLY STATED.

1. The Master is come. Come from heaven, to this earth, for every man. Of all the facts of history none is better attested, more important, or more glorious than this.

2. The Master calls individuals —

(1) In the operations of nature, in the events of history, in the working of conscience, in the ministry of His servants.

(2) To heal thy diseases, to break thy chains, to enlighten thy judgment, to cleanse thy conscience, to purify thy heart, and to save thy soul.

II. RIGHTLY DELIVERED. Martha delivered her message.

1. Undoubtingly (ver. 27). "And when she had so said" she proceeds, filled with the spirit of her mission, to Mary. He who delivers the message without being assured of its truth, is no genuine preacher. That Christ has come and calls for men, must be among his most settled convictions.

2. Judiciously. He "secretly" suggests prudence in regard to —

(1)  Times;

(2)  Circumstances;

(3)  Moods.

III. PROPERLY RECEIVED. Mary received it as every hearer of the gospel should.

1. Promptly (ver. 29). She did not wait to consult her companion. The delay of a moment after the voice has come is wrong and perilous.

2. Resolutely (ver. 30). On an occasion so full of excitement, it required no little nerve to proceed to where Jesus was in sublime solitude. The Gospel call requires determination of soul: there are so many opposing forces and unfavourable considerations.

3. Fearlessly (ver. 31). Well she knew that her going forth would be contrary to the wish of the Jews; but, defiant of their prejudices, she obeys the command. Thus it must be with those who would comply with the invitations of the gospel.

4. Devoutly (ver. 32). "At His feet," where every hearer should be.Conclusion: Here is —

1. A fact in which humanity should rejoice. "The Master is come." What fools those are who go not to meet Him!

2. An example that preachers should imitate — Martha's.

3. The conduct gospel hearers should follow.

(D. Thomas, D. D.)It is said of Sister Dora that, no matter at what hour the hospital door bell rang, she used to rise instantly to admit the patient saying, "The Master is come and calleth for thee."

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KJV: And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.

WEB: When she had said this, she went away, and called Mary, her sister, secretly, saying, "The Teacher is here, and is calling you."