RBWords

     One of the frequent complaints I hear from folks who have retired (or who, like me, are considered to be on "limited service") is that they are busier now than they were when they worked full time.  But this complaint isn't just for "seniors!"  I hear college students complain that there never seems to be enough time for such things as Mary does in the charming but theologically significant scene from the Gospel According to Luke that we have for today.  It would appear that the TV commercial is right when it says, "Life comes at you fast!"  

     In my years of campus ministry I have often said to students that there are two very important things they will need to learn outside the classroom during their care-free undergrad years:  how to use time wisely and how to fall in love. The first of those two lessons is certain to be still in place when one retires.  For some, the question is finding things to do because "work" was the only activity.  For others, it is finding time to do all the things you like to do and are all clamoring for attention!   Where does the contemplative listening to the Lord's word and sitting at his feet come in?  Well....it does take some discipline to keep both Martha and Mary happy, but the Lord's admonition to Martha seems to challenge the frenetic American lifestyle head-on.  

     At parishes (where I've preached parish missions) that have adoration chapels, I have heard both seniors and college students say that the adoration time is the only quiet time they have.  Staying committed to it is the challenge.  The Martha in us is challenged to make the time.  The Mary in us is challenged to stay committed to it!  AMEN