This is a reflection on the Mass readings of the day.
Today’s readings are a combination of the reading for the weekday in ordinary time (first reading and psalm) and the reading for the memorial of Sts. Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (gospel). Providentially, they complete each other as if they were hand-picked by the wisest of pastors.
The dwelling place of God in the first reading is so utterly filled with glory that Moses is unable to enter it. The people cast their eyes upon it in great wonder, seeing a cloud by day and fire by night. The psalm reflects their wonder: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord, mighty God!”
In the gospel, Jesus’ dwelling place for the moment is in Bethany, and it is there, at his feet, that St. Mary wishes to dwell. The psalm reflects her joy as well. How beautiful to her, as she contemplates Him, her Lord and God, is the place where He is, His dwelling place.
As St. Martha is portrayed to do in today’s gospel, we often think of our responsibility as Christians as service, as responsibilities, as doing things for God, and of course fulfilling our responsibilities is an important aspect of His will.
But the essence of His will for us is this: That we dwell with Him; that we contemplate His dwelling place; that we share in His glory. And here on earth, like St. Mary, we do that by sitting at His feet in prayer.
Ideas for conversation with the Lord: Ask Jesus to help you establish your dwelling place where He is, that your heart may steadily contemplate Him, and place the source of all its security and hope in Him.
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