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.”
Reflect:
Martha has suffered much bad press due to the words of Jesus to her. Jesus wasn’t
necessarily downgrading Martha. After all, he was so fond of the family of Lazarus and his
sisters that it is this family he would choose to visit to spend a few restful moments before his
passion commenced. Every one of them was dear to him. Nor was Jesus downplaying the
importance of the work Martha was doing – after all, someone should take care of hospitality as
well. Jesus only diagnosed the worry and anxiety she suffered while engaged in work. What Mary
had achieved was the constancy and calmness of mind that helped her focus on the present. If
only Martha could continue to work but with a mind and heart at rest! If only we could also do the
same as we go through the daily chores and ministries! (See the reflection on July 29.)
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