Martha is the older sister who spends her time cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Unfortunately her lack of rest sometimes results in grumpiness. Younger sister Mary reads, plays the harp, writes letters, and plays with the neighborhood children. But these habits cause her to forget her household responsibilities.
When Jesus comes to visit, the clash of opposites becomes apparent. He gently reminds Martha that listening to his teaching is more important than making the beds and fretting over what to serve for dessert. Both sisters realize they've been wrong. Martha takes time to listen to Jesus, and later Mary insists on doing the chores while Martha takes time to play.
Cat Bowman Smith's colorful illustrations in Mary and Martha go beyond the book's prose to demonstrate the plight of the sisters. Martha trips over the oblivious Mary who is happily playing with the dog, and later throws back her head in frustration at mary's forgetfulness. Mary's face is a constant picture of joy and delight at the world around her. Mary and Martha demonstartes the actions and emotions of each sister as they discover the importance of being with Jesus and balancing work and play.
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