In last week’s Gospel, we find the scholar of the law asking Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responds with a story about a Samaritan who helps the man lying on the ground. The Samaritan is praised for “doing” something, instead of simply passing by. Through the parable, Jesus reminds his listeners to be “doers” of the will of God.

We find a “doer” in the Gospel today. Martha welcomes Jesus by active service. It is not hard to imagine that her service includes preparing a meal and setting the table. She knows that Jesus and his disciples are tired, hungry and thirsty from their journey. She only wants to give them the best hospitality. After all, Jesus is more than just a guest; he is family to them.

Understandably, when Martha sees Mary just sitting at his feet and seemingly “doing nothing,” she asks Jesus to reprimand her saying, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” Instead of reprimanding Mary, Jesus corrects Martha and tells her to calm down.

Jesus does not say Martha’s work is unimportant and her service is of no value. Jesus definitely appreciates service as a form of hospitality. The main issue that Jesus wants to address is her anxiety. “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.” Her service is not something that brings her joy and life. It leaves her rather upset, anxious and worried. There is something missing in her service – joy!

Unfortunately, the busy-ness of our lives and the many responsibilities that we need to do leave us anxious, worried and upset. It is clear to us that we do all these things because of noble reasons - we want to provide for our families, we want to deliver great customer service, etc. But sometimes, the overwhelming responsibilities can suck the joy from our life. We feel like we are being dragged into it. There is no more joy in what we do. Jesus reminds us today that there is a way out to this. Only one thing is required – be present to Christ, like what Mary does.

Our world today makes sure that we do not get this. There was a time when Sunday was dedicated only to the Lord. Today, so many things compete with Jesus – sports, sales, marathons, concerts, vacations, and many others. These things have value in themselves but they should not pull us away from being present to Christ in prayer and sacraments. We dedicate our Sunday, the first day of the week to the Lord, because this sets the tone of the rest of the week. When we are connected with the Lord, the source of joy, hope and love, our work ceases to be work. They become activities that give joy to the heart. But when we lose our connection with Jesus, our work, no matter how well-intentioned it is, it would feel like we are being dragged into it. Be present to Christ. Pray before the Blessed Sacrament. Dedicate your Sunday to the Lord (yes, even during summer break!)