LUKE 10:38-42 [or Jn 11:19-27]

Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed Him. She had a sister named Mary [who] sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing.

Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.”

Reflection:

Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. I visited a family whom I knew well. As soon as I reached their home, they kept on inviting me to try this dish or that food, to taste this delicacy, or to take a little of that specialty they had ordered.

I could not enjoy the varied foods on the table because they kept on pushing them on to my plate. Gathering some courage, I told them gently that I was not really hungry. I had dropped by to see them. I promised them I would take something as we shared stories. The evening went pleasantly as we laughed, recalling memories and experiences that we shared.

What made us happy afterwards was that we realized we were worried and anxious about one another and not about the food! Use things but love people. Be interested in things but be caring for people. Recall things but remember people. That is the one thing necessary.

Breathe deeply, relax, and stay cool in spite of anything this weekend.

SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord 2011,” ST. PAULS Philippines, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.,); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: books@stpauls.ph; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.