Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly noted for her devotion and attentiveness to Jesus' teachings. Her account is primarily found in the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of John, where she is depicted as a model of discipleship and faith.

In the Gospel of Luke, Mary is introduced in the context of a visit by Jesus to the home of Martha and Mary. Luke 10:38-42 narrates this encounter: "As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, 'Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!' 'Martha, Martha,' the Lord replied, 'you are worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.'"

This passage highlights Mary's choice to prioritize spiritual nourishment over domestic duties, a decision that Jesus commends. By sitting at Jesus' feet, Mary assumes the posture of a disciple, eager to learn and absorb the wisdom of her Teacher. Her actions reflect a deep spiritual hunger and a recognition of the importance of Jesus' words, which she values above the cultural expectations of hospitality and service.

Mary's devotion is further illustrated in the Gospel of John, where she plays a pivotal role in the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. In John 11, Mary and Martha send word to Jesus that their brother Lazarus is ill. Upon Jesus' arrival after Lazarus' death, Mary demonstrates her faith and grief by falling at His feet, saying, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:32). Her trust in Jesus' power and her vulnerability in expressing her sorrow reveal a profound relationship with Him.

In John 12:1-3 , Mary again appears in a significant act of devotion: "Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom He had raised from the dead. So they hosted a dinner for Jesus there. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with Him. Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume." This act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume is a profound expression of love and reverence, symbolizing her recognition of His impending sacrifice and her willingness to honor Him with her most valuable possession.

Mary's actions throughout the Gospels exemplify a heart fully devoted to Christ, characterized by a willingness to listen, learn, and worship. Her account serves as an enduring example of the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and devotion to Jesus above all else.Luke 10:38-42
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
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The Jerusalem Sinner Saved;
... was a very holy woman, much like Lazarus, her brother ... Now, what does Mary, after
a little pause, but goes ... done, away she goes, not with her sister Martha, but ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the jerusalem sinner saved.htm

Beginning at Jerusalem. --Luke xxiv. 47.
... was a very holy woman, much like Lazarus her brother ... Now, what does Mary, after a
little pause, but goes up ... done, away she goes, not with her sister Martha, but ...
/.../bunyan/jerusalem sinner saved/beginning at jerusalem luke xxiv 47.htm

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