“Are you a Martha or a Mary”
Fr. Paul asked me to do a reflection last week, but I have been busy with Nokomis time, being with grandchildren in their activities. I was enjoying being their cheerleader with sports, in particular hockey and softball. I replied I can do it next week, and I was so surprised with the scripture readings for today. As I have been known to say, I am a Martha. I feel I am the one who says yes to things that need to be done, when no one else jumps up to volunteer. This behavior creates the feeling of resentfulness toward the others for not saying yes.
Martha in today’s gospel is so busy with the details of looking after a household and its chores. Jesus appears at their home and Mary decides to sit at the Lord’s feet and listen to what he is saying, while Martha slaves over other tasks.
Are we prepared to drop everything for God? Do we take the time to attend mass, and enjoy the fellowship of being together for prayer as Mary did? Or are we anxious about the day’s events or activities and wanting to make sure everything is taken care of.
The first reading has Abraham being a host and doing it with a loving heart, and guests appreciating his generous gift of food and his serving and his company. As the guests were leaving, one of the guests turns around to ask “Where is your wife, Sarah?” Abraham said “There in the tent”. This couple was given a blessing by that guest when he said “I will surely return to you in due season and your wife Sarah shall have a son”. There are times when people bless us with good fortune for the kindness we have demonstrated. The individuals feel loved and go away happy. Goodness is returned tenfold when we least expect it.
We can be a Martha or a Mary, we have a choice.
– Margaret (Tish) Manitowabi
