Last week in the Gospel the parable of the Good Samaritan taught what it means to love our neighbor, this week as Jesus visits Martha and Mary, His visit throws light on what it means to love God whole-heartedly.

Jesus was traveling with His followers, so Martha had a lot of guests to feed, and was so distracted by what needed doing that she virtually ignored Jesus.  Mary gave Jesus her whole attention, sitting at His feet as a disciple.  To love God wholeheartedly means to act like Mary.  Sure, there were a lot of things that needed doing that Mary could have helped with, but Mary put Jesus first.  God wants our service, but we must not get so distracted by our service of God that we forget about God.

Luke shows us that Martha, who served Jesus with numerous domestic tasks, failed to demonstrate hospitality –  whole hearted attention to the guest.  The hospitable Mary not only follows the law of love, but also exhibits the gospel of love which leads to life.

Lord teach me to always put you first in my life.

God Bless,

Msgr. Powell