Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Lk 10:38-42
October 4, 2022 | Tuesday

Today’s Gospel

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he entered a village, and a woman called Martha welcomed him to her house. She had a sister named Mary, who sat down at the Lord’s feet to listen to his words. Martha, meanwhile, was busy with all the serving, and finally she said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do all the work? Tell her to help me!” But the Lord answered, “Martha, Martha, you worry and are troubled about many things, whereas only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Today’s Reflection:

Jesus affirms Mary’s act of listening to him (v. 39) and says she chose the better part (v. 42). Like Mary, a true disciple “listens” attentively to the Lord. One must not merely understand God’s words but more importantly obey God’s commandment. Paying attention, understanding, and being obedient comprise the real meaning of “listening” that makes a person wise and righteous. Unlike Martha, who was so interiorly disturbed (that is why she complained [v. 40]) and withdrawn from the Lord (because of her worries about many things [v.41]), true disciples can free themselves from things that hinder them from seeing God in their lives. Christian discipleship, therefore, demands detachment from worries, entrusting them all to God. Perhaps Jesus is telling Martha (and us!) to strengthen her (and our) faith – a thing which will not be taken from Mary (v. 42). /Vulnerasti, 2022