The better part

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In Quietness

Luke Parker

Today is Tuesday the 6th of October, in the 27th week of Ordinary Time.

Give yourself a moment to become still. You may wish to close your eyes, focus on your breathing for a few moments, or do whatever helps you settle into stillness with God, as Luke Parker sings, ‘In Quietness’.

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Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, [Jesus] 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.’

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Forever Near

In today’s reading notice that, in the beginning, it is Martha who welcomes Jesus into her home. Take a moment to consider her expectations of how that visit would be received. Perhaps, when you begin your day, you have a sense of what is needed. What would be your response if Jesus called on you today?

As Jesus sits down, it is Mary who sits at his feet, ready to listen and be present to the Lord. Mary surely has tasks to do too, but she has chosen to be with Jesus. Consider times when you have made this choice. Perhaps it had meant stepping away from the everyday duties and expectations? What was it like to turn completely towards the Lord?

Many people defend Martha, perhaps defending the busyness of their own lives. Be aware of the feelings that stir in you as the scene plays out before you. Where are you drawn? To sympathise with the frustration of Martha’s busyness or accept the invitation of Mary’s stillness?

As we listen to the passage again, we remind ourselves that we have both sisters in our lives. Consider how you might be able to fulfil your desire to be closer to the Lord.

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Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, [Jesus] 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.’

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“Mary has chosen the better part.” In this time of prayer, ask the Lord to show you how to take your place at his feet.

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Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen