Two sisters greeted once a well-loved guest.
Each wished to honor him. Day's heat was done;
The Master rested by the garden stream.
There Mary came; the living word she sought
Fell on her waiting ears, till joy, reborn,
Left earth behind and caught the gleam of heaven.
But Martha toiled, beset with household cares;
And though at times her eyes strayed longingly
Towards the peace outside, she turned away,
Bound to her tasks—and lonelier, wearier grew.
Which sister loved the most? Who served him best?
