Sunday 21 July 2019: Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Martha took up the duties in the house. Mary chose the better part

We know from John's gospel that Martha and Mary were friends of Jesus, and that he was frequently in their home. Luke tells us nothing of this; perhaps it was not in the material available to him. However, he immortalises this incident that took place during one of Jesus' visits, because he sees it as having a lesson for us all. Busy preparing special dishes for their guest, Martha feels left out. Jesus tells her not to go to so much trouble: one dish will be plenty. He then goes beyond this homely advice to remind Martha and those present that the 'one thing necessary' in life is finding the truth he is bringing them. Mary does not need to be reminded of this; she shows herself to be a true 'disciple'...

Extract by John Thornhill sm - read more at The Emmaus Series | Image courtesy of Hermano Leon Clipart

Celebrating the Feast of St James