Jul 29 Tue
Can one be holy just by taking care of the family home?
Today, we celebrate the feast of three siblings, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus.
Martha had a sister, Mary, who listened attentively to Jesus' words.
Now He addresses his words to you, and wants you too to choose the better part, to make Him your only concern."
To do so, an upright intention is essential. If it is lacking, what we read today about Martha could also happen to us: But Martha was distracted with much serving. But the Lord told her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her."
The family of Bethany's refined treatment of Jesus is a model of cheerful service, based on a love without limits. The domestic work of Martha and Mary's solicitous attention invites us to consider the work of the household administration in our homes. Their job is a privilege for which we can never thank our Lord enough. In carrying out these tasks, these persons admirably unite the love of Mary and the complete dedication of Martha.
The work of household administration in our homes is a true and very direct service to God. Perhaps you don't realize this. It might seem an insignificant thread in the tapestry of the home, but in reality, it is the backing that supports the finest embroideries. Without it, a large portion of our work would be impossible, and the atmosphere of a home, which helps us so much in the service of God, would be lacking.
This may not seem strange to you. Yet many people cannot understand it. They look down at it. They don't think it is possible to seek Christian perfection while engaged in a simple job, remaining in the middle of the world, without changing one's state. After much effort and with the help of divine grace, they will understand.
Let us ask our Lord to give us his grace, so that we know how to make him stay with us as Martha and Mary did, as the disciples of Emmaus did. Lord, we need you. Never abandon us. May we never leave you.
“Lord, stay with us! Stay with us in the Bethany that our home is! Stay in our hearts! And if we ever have the misfortune of separating ourselves from You, come out to meet us yourself, and remind us that only You have the words of eternal Life, of peace, of tranquility; of a peace and joy that the world cannot give."
Consequently, let us thank God for the atmosphere at our home that helps us to be with Jesus as though we were in Bethany and in Nazareth, next to Mary and Joseph. Let us also thank these persons who take care of our home and accomplish it as a real professional work, most pleasing to God.