“Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me…to do the serving?” (Luke 10:40). of Tuesday October 10, 2023

When I read or hear this passage, I recall my mother’s commentary. She always took Martha’s side: “What if everyone just sat around and talked? Who would put the food on the table?” Yet Jesus teaches that Mary chose “the better part”—listening to his words. Most spiritual writers claim that our growth in holiness is actually a blend: time spent in prayer and time devoted to loving service of others. Prayer without practicing the works of mercy and justice can remain spiritually sterile. On the other hand, without being centered in a loving relationship with our Lord, we find ourselves frazzled and even resentful at the demands people are making on us.

A well-balanced spiritual life combines a healthy dose of both Mary and Martha.