You have chosen the better part! Every time I hear this, I can’t help but think of the Martha and Mary story we just heard. I used to get upset thinking that Martha, the doer, was getting picked on. Since I am a doer, I felt for Martha.
One time as I was defending Martha, my friend said to me that it was not because she was doing what she was asked to sit as Mary had chosen the better part. It was because she complained that she was doing all the work. Ah, but she chose to be the one to offer hospitality to Jesus. So, once you make up your mind to do something then there can be no complaining. Now when I choose to do something and at a point where I wonder why I am doing what I am doing, I have to remember that I chose to do it so NO complaining.
This was my thinking before I saw an episode of the Chosen: season 4, episode 5. I can just about replay the whole episode for you. One of my favorite parts is the Martha and Mary scene. First of all, Mary meets Jesus before he gets to their house. From that moment on she never takes her eyes off Jesus. During the whole time she is focused on him. Martha on the other hand greets Jesus but knows that hospitality is very important and so continues to work on preparing something for the group.
The difference comes at the part when she is trying to get Mary’s attention to help. It is comical as Mary doesn’t see her trying to get her to help as she is focused on Jesus. Finally, Martha says to Jesus that she could get the rest of the guests fed if Mary would help. Jesus then asks Martha to come and sit by him. He proceeds to thank her for her hospitality and feeding their bodies while he is feeding their souls with his words -- both are necessary. He doesn't chide her with “Mary has chosen the better part”. He acknowledges her goodness.
It is quite a touching scene, and in the end, all are fed physically and spiritually. So how do you fit into this story? Are you Martha or Mary? I’ve come to realize that no matter what we are about we are asked to choose the better part no matter what it might be. Are you willing to do what is necessary in different situations? Sometimes we are called to act while other times being still is the way. Can you focus on Jesus’ words like Mary as well as be attentive to others’ needs like Martha?
For me being my best self is what is really important. Keeping my heart and mind open to hear what God is asking of me at a particular time is key. This week, spend time recognizing if you are acting like Martha or Mary and IF it is the best way to go. For there is no better part then to do what God is asking of you.
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
