Gospel: Luke 10:38-42
The story of Martha and Mary is one of those “classic” scripture stories. Everyone has heard it, and so many use Martha and Mary for so many different metaphors. I think what I find interesting is that the story says something different each time I read it.
We can see this as a story of hospitality. Lazarus’ sisters are always welcoming to Jesus but also to any guest that “shows up at their doorstep.” That is what good Jewish women did then, (and do now), both provided different aspects of welcome.
When I read this story, I am inclined to look at the contrast between the two women and ask myself, what really is important, in life, or even at this moment? Does my prayer life keep getting off track when some busy work overshadows it, even when that busy work involves providing for an important guest, friend, or family member? Do I rationalize that my work is caring for others, as Jesus tells me to, and so it’s okay for my prayer life to take a back seat? Am I too busy to take time for God?
Have you ever looked at the lesson being a question of self-righteousness? Have you seen yourself as Martha, always having to do daily chores while someone else is off shining in the limelight, being praised for their accomplishments while you are doing the hidden work that allows them those accolades? Has the thought, “they should be doing their share,” crossed your mind?
Another way to view Martha and Mary is through their different roles, their vocations in life. After all, everyone has his/her own vocation/destiny/purpose/job. When Jesus says, “Mary has chosen the better part,” I question what that means for me in the “hierarchy” of vocations. Is that why some folks see religious life as a higher calling than married life, or life as a single person? I think that’s why Jesus’ statement leaves it up to us to see where we fit in the story; to see the value of my life, as well as every other person’s life.
So, today, what does this story say to YOU? What has it said to you in the past, and what message will you share with someone else about it? Better yet, what message will you receive from that person with whom you share?
Sister Catherine Fedewa, CSFN
