July 18, 2010: 16 Sunday in Ordinary Time

Saint Mother Theodore suggests “In the morning say in your heart: 'O my God, here is another day given me to love and serve You.'”

As they went on their way, Jesus entered a village, and a woman named Martha received him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the better part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)

In today’s gospel Martha is upset because she gets no help from her sister Mary. Mary is spending time with their friend and guest, Jesus. She isn’t helping Martha get the meal together. Jesus takes Mary’s side in this situation. The point of the story is that whatever we do we should do with the right intention. God (Jesus) should be first in our lives so that our actions are done for the right reason. Jesus was most important to Mary; Martha was distracted by her work from paying attention to her special friend and guest.

Action:

Whatever you do, in word or action, do it for the love of God. “Whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 11:31) Saint Mother Theodore Guerin suggests this daily action, “In the morning say in your heart: ‘O my God, here is another day given me to love and serve You.’” May this little prayer help you remember throughout the day who it is you are serving.