Francis Gayang csc
Readings: Hos 2: 14, 19-20; Lk 10: 38-42
In today’s gospel Mary is seen as an attentive listener at the feet of Jesus. She knew what was expected of her to do as a woman, especially when guests visit. But Mary recognized that Jesus was not an ordinary guest, he is a life-giver. She forgets all those man-made instructions and prescriptions expected of her by society and sat there at the feet of the Lord, listening to him attentively. She doesn’t want to miss such an occasion to listen to him.
Martha on the other side was right in calling Mary as she had many things to be done in the kitchen from a human point of view. But she missed the point of Jesus’ visitation. Jesus was pleased with Martha’s active spirit of service, no doubt, but she missed what was most important, that is to listen to the Lord, knowing and doing His will – My food is doing the will of him who sent me (Jn 4:34). In the gospel scene Martha and Mary are seen as models of service and contemplative life.
In the life of a Christian, activity and contemplation should be seen as complementary, and not opposed to one another. Lord, help us to recognize what is most important in our lives and not to settle for what seems to satisfy us without knowing your will. Give us the grace to have the willingness to listen and desire to do what you want us to do. Help us not to compromise our prayer life even when work demands more time.