Mary of Bethany

What was it Mary sought
That caused the Lord to say,
“The one thing needful she has got.
“It won’t be taken away.”?

It wasn’t service of the kind
That Martha tried to bear,
That weighted up on her fretful mind
And cumbered her with care.

The outward kind that people see,
That suits a worldly plan,
Is measured by activity
And wins the praise of man.

But Mary chose the better part,
That showed in humble ways
The quiet service of the heart
And earned her Master’s praise.

She sat at Jesus’ feet and learned
Believing what she heard.
His meaning she by faith discerned
And drank in every word.

She valued Christ and all He said
Above her rare perfume;
She poured the ointment on His head,
Til fragrance filled the room.

Indignant that she wouldn’t stop,
The false disciple mocks,
But Mary poured out every drop
And even broke the box.

This service Mary gave her Lord
Was little understood,
But He on whom the oil was poured
Proclaimed that it was good.

Now everywhere the gospel’s told
Her memory’s spoken of.
‘Cause Mary’s faith had made her bold
To work the works of love.

Nita Brainard