The Memorial of St Martha

Jer. 15:10.16-21, Lk. 10:38-42. Following God can pose many challenges. In today's first reading, Jeremiah realises those challenges as he continues his ministry as a prophet of God. The Psalm also speaks of hardships for those who seek to do the will of God while today's Gospel points out the active service life exemplified by Martha whose memorial we celebrate. After learning the lesson of patience from Jesus, she is able to profess her faith in her Master with a very strong statement of belief. Martha again is anxious and impatient, this time because her sister Mary is not helping her with menial tasks of hospitality. Jesus commends Mary for her desire to be at the Master's feet like a true disciple. Jesus teaches Martha that even though hospitality and serving others is important, it is also important to be present with the Master's feet and allow Him to be present on our lives. 

Instead, Martha allowed herself to be distracted by the procedures and details, in worldly concerns that she thought would impress the Lord as a good hostess and friend, not realising that she had spent the precious time she should have spent with the Lord. Sometimes, we are so preoccupied with many concerns that we often forget about God and put Him aside. We often get so busy to even notice how God has always cared for us, even when we have been wayward and delinquent with our lives. It is very easy for us to lose focus and be distracted like Martha. Today, we are challenged to detach ourselves from the attachment to our busy life schedules, especially to our work and profession, take some time out to be with the Lord. Instead of being tempted and swayed by the pursuits of power, glory, material wealth and fame, pleasures of the body and mind that leads us away from God, let us rather redirect our lives and focus on God, knowing that in Him alone we can find true happiness, joy and satisfaction.

May the Lord be for us a refuge and strength and by His grace grant us the courage to remain with Christ amidst the distractions of this world! Amen!! Stay safe and do have a great day!!!