Word to the Wise
Tuesday, October 10, 2006 - 27th Tuesday in Ordinary Time
[Galatians 1:13-24 and Luke 10:38-42]"Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thng. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her."
Recently, a very active lady expressed indignation to me about this story! She was not sympathetic to Jesus' comments and very sympathetic to Martha! Taken apart from the story that immediately precedes it, this story would seem discouraging to an "activist." Indeed, this story has been used in the past in a way that would make contemplative religious life "superior" to apostolically active religious life. The story that immediately precedes this one is that of the Good Samaritan! That story reminds any disciple that his or her "neighbor" may be anyone and the important thing is to show compassion. The story of Martha and Mary reminds the disciple that the reason for showing compassion is the relationship with the Lord. That relationship requires more than activism. It could be a warning that "burn out" is the common fate of those who think that apostolic life is co-extensive with spiritual life. The advice is to "sit beside the Lord at his feet (the position of a disciple) and hear him speak." The long term result is a healthier and more effective disciple. Mary and Martha should not be seen as rivals but as two sides of the same coin. Both are necessary and wisdom must guide the emphasis needed at the time. AMEN
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