The New Perspective on Mary and Martha gives Mary and Martha a total makeover. No longer is this familiar passage about prioritizing spiritual pursuits over the tyranny of the practical. The results of a close reading of the text and careful exegesis of the Greek has Martha escaping the kitchen and Mary is not even in the house! Martha is still overly worried, not about housework, but over the much more understandable concern about her (younger) sister. Mary, who is out of the village, follows her call, ministering on the road with Jesus. Luke 10:38-42 is about discipleship, ministry, trust, and the new family of Jesus. ""The industrious 'Marthas' accomplish many necessary tasks--like meal preparation--but in reality, the contemplative and studious 'Marys' have chosen a higher calling. Really? What's a woman to do? Mary Hanson mounts a formidable challenge to this rarely questioned polarization, not to mention, enigma. Her careful handling of the Gospel texts forces us to take a second look, and in the process gain a new perspective on women's 'ministries.'"" --William W. Klein, Professor of New Testament, Denver Seminary ""The story of Mary and Martha is perhaps too familiar to most of us. A new perspective is not only needed but now available. Readers of any background will appreciate the academic integrity and accessibility in this new book. Mary Hanson Stromer is a capable writer with enormous biblical perception. I plan to promote this book widely and I hope you join me."" --Mimi Haddad, President, Christians for Biblical Equality Mary Stromer Hanson is a recent graduate of Denver Seminary. Mary has particular interest in Christian feminism and studies of women in the Bible and is also the author of Ten Bold Girls of the Bible.