Window 8a: Mary and Martha

 Window 8 shows Jesus interacting with two groups of people frequently seen as "less important" in patriarchal culture:  women and children.  In each case, Jesus firmly states that they also have value in God's eyes and share in God's grace and salvation.

In Window 8a, we see Jesus interacting with a woman -- Mary of Bethany -- while her sister Martha works in the background:

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 home.  And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet and heard his word.  But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone?  Bid her therefore that she help me.  And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:  But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part which shall not be taken away from her.  (Luke 10:38-42)

Window 8a:  Mary hath chosen
that good part" (Luke 10:42)

In the image medallion of Window 8a, Mary sits a little lower than Jesus, who is clearly teaching her since his arms and hands are open and hers are crossed on her breast.  In the background, above her head, we see Martha setting a table for their meal.

Mary has abandoned "women's work" for the opportunity of sitting at Jesus' feet and learning from him -- and Jesus' confirmation of her choice, "that good part which shall not be taken away from her," emphasizes that women may also be disciples, may also participate equally in the training and ministry of the church.

The icon in the symbol medallion its an anchor.  It symbolizes hope and stability, from Hebrews 6:19a:  "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast."

Since the anchor is formed with two crossed bars, it also reminds us of the cross, and our certain hope of salvation through his death and resurrection.  It is one of the oldest symbols of the Christian Church, used as early as the 2nd century AD  (Christian Symbology).

Its use on this panel perhaps connects to Jesus' statement that Mary's choice "shall not be taken away from her," indicating that faith, or hope in Christ, is an anchor to the soul.

Prayer:  Lord, we are so often like Martha, busy with the details instead of taking the time to rest and listen, like Mary.  Help us to center our lives around the anchor of your Word and Salvation, that we can weather the busyness and distractions of our lives.  Amen.

South Aisle, Window 8:  Mary and Martha; Blessing the children

Window Dedication:

This window given by
Mrs. C. A. Platou
in memory of her husband
Dr. Carl A. Platou