Gospel Reflection for: October 8, 2024
Daily Gospel Reading: Luke 10:38-42 NRSVCE
In Luke 10:38-42, we meet two sisters, Martha and Mary, who welcome Jesus into their home. Martha is busy bustling around, trying to be the perfect hostess. Mary, on the other hand, simply sits at Jesus’ feet, soaking up his words. Martha gets frustrated and asks Jesus to tell Mary to help out. But Jesus gently reminds her that Mary has chosen “the better part” – being present with Him.
The To-Do List Trap
Think about your own life. How often do you feel like Martha, running around with a never-ending to-do list? We’re constantly bombarded with demands – work, family, social commitments, chores, errands. It’s easy to get so caught up in the busyness of life that we forget to slow down and simply be present.
This story reminds us that sometimes, the most important thing we can do is just stop and breathe. It’s about creating space in our busy schedules to connect with God, to listen to his voice, and to find rest in his presence.
Distracted by the Good
Martha wasn’t doing anything wrong; she was trying to be hospitable and serve Jesus. But her desire to do everything perfectly distracted her from the true purpose of Jesus’ visit – to connect with him on a deeper level.
We can all relate to this. We might get so caught up in doing good things – volunteering, serving at church, helping others – that we neglect our own spiritual well-being. This passage reminds us that it’s important to find a balance between serving others and nurturing our relationship with God.
The Power of Presence
Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to his teachings. She recognized that being in his presence was more important than any task she could accomplish. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most valuable thing we can do is simply be still and listen to God’s voice.
Think about a time when you’ve felt truly connected to someone – a deep conversation with a friend, a quiet moment with a loved one, or even a time of prayer where you felt God’s presence. Those moments of connection are precious and life-giving.
Finding the Balance
This story isn’t about choosing between service and devotion; it’s about finding a healthy balance. We’re called to serve others, but we’re also called to spend time with God, to nourish our souls and deepen our faith.
Imagine a garden that’s full of beautiful flowers but has no roots. It might look impressive for a while, but it won’t last. In the same way, our lives need to be rooted in our relationship with God if we want to flourish and bear fruit.
A Prayer for a Focused Heart:
God, in the midst of our busy lives, help us to create space for you. Teach us to prioritize our relationship with you, to listen to your voice, and to find rest in your presence. May we serve others with love, but may we also remember that the “better part” is simply being with you. Amen.
Remember: Life is full of demands, but don’t let them crowd out your time with God. Choose to be present with Him, to listen to His voice, and to find true rest in His love.
May God bless you as you share His love, and may His love guide you in every step you take.
Amen.