Choosing What Truly Matters
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time — July 20, 2025
Luke 10:38–42
This Sunday’s Gospel invites us into the home of two sisters—Martha and Mary.
Martha is busy preparing and serving, while Mary simply sits at Jesus’ feet, listening. When Martha complains, Jesus surprises us by saying:
“Mary has chosen the better part.”
What does this mean for us?
Martha’s work is good and necessary, but Jesus sees beyond the tasks—He sees the heart.
Martha is “anxious and troubled,” but Mary is focused on the one thing that truly matters: being fully present to the Lord.
In our busy world, activity is often mistaken for holiness. Yet, without a foundation of prayer, our service can become tiring, distracted, and even resentful.
Jesus reminds us that all action must begin in relationship. Prayer is not something to fit in after work—it is the wellspring from which all work flows.
Reflect:
Are you rushing through your tasks, or sitting quietly at Jesus’ feet?
Is prayer the foundation of your service, or an afterthought?
We honor those who live hidden lives of prayer—contemplatives, cloistered religious, and quiet souls—who remind us that presence, not performance, is what God desires most.
This Gospel invites us to:
Slow down.
Sit.
Listen.
Remember that the most fruitful moment of your day may be your time spent in stillness before Christ.
What is the “better part” you are invited to choose this week?
Make space for it. It will not be taken from you.
“Be still and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK –
1st Reading : Abraham’s treatment of the three strangers modeled the value of hospitality in the ancient world. What are some ways you show kindness and warmth to others?
2nd Reading : Paul found reasons to rejoice despite suffering for his faith in Christ and his mission to the Gentiles. How do you find joy and hope in difficult situations?
Gospel: Jesus teaches Martha that her anxiety and worry can be calmed by listening to his words. How can you be present this week to an anxious friend or co-worker?