Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Today’s Reading  |  Luke 10:38–42
Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (NRSV)

Reflection
In these verses, we look at the story of two sisters who are wired differently. Temperamentally they could be described as polar opposites. A pivotal moment arrives in their lives. Jesus is coming to their home, and each will choose how she will receive him. This is a story about choices.

In this text, Martha as head of the household takes her responsibilities seriously. She exercises due diligence in household matters in extending hospitality (I think Martha struggles with perfectionism). Jesus notes that she is worried about many things and as a result is frequently out of sorts emotionally. It is reasonable to assume that her sense of self-worth is tied to the approval of others and how well she performs her role. Most of us are geared this way to some extent, but Martha is on the high end of the conformity scale.

I think Mary has a more sensitive and intuitive nature. There is no place she would rather be than in Jesus’ presence, receiving his wisdom. She recognizes this as a precious opportunity. I like to think of her as someone who swims against the stream. Did she feel guilty about leaving all the work to Martha once Jesus arrived? Was she worried about how others might judge her for her decision? Whatever the fallout, she chose to follow her heart.

Can you recall when you had the opportunity to be present to a unique and compelling moment, a moment where you could connect or find healing or even transformation, but you let the moment pass by? The busyness of our routine and work can prevent us from a fresh encounter that could bring hope and vitality.

The sisters, Mary and Martha, remind us to attend to our choices. What we value is where we invest our time and energy. There is something to be said for the mindful living movements. Mindful living in part means being present and open to those sacred moments that nourish our life.

Prayer
Good Lord, guide us and give us the grace to choose the better part, for our lives, our relationships, and our world. Amen.

Written by Susan Cornelius, Psychotherapist, Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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