Being Martha

To work or not to work, that is the question.

Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her." - Luke 10:38-42

I can't imagine that I am the only one who has had trouble with the message in today's Gospel.

Anyone who has ever found themselves stuck in the kitchen while the guests are all yucking it up in the living room or den knows what I mean.

I'm sure this is the main reason people want open concept kitchens in their homes.  They want to be a part of the party while taking care of the business of hosting.

But can we truly have it both ways?  Can we do the work and enjoy the party?

Jesus seems to be saying we need to choose and the better choice is to enjoy the party, to be engaged with one's company.

Most interpretations of this story focus on Jesus.  Mary's choice was right because Jesus would soon go away and so she was wise to be with him while she could.  Martha, on the other hand was distracted, her priorities screwed up.

But we don't know the hour or the day, he tells us, so what do we do each day if not work?

I think the message is a simple one.  While we have each other, we should take the time to be together, do things together, enjoy each other's company.

There will come a time when we can not.

So, put down the oven mitt and join the party.  For a little while, let the work wait.  When everyone gets hungry, they will pitch in to help.

More to come...