Choose the Better Portion ~ by Ronnie Archer

"Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time"

In today's first reading, we hear how "busy" and hospitable Abraham was when he encountered the three men whom he at first did not recognize as the Lord. Abraham had Sarah, his wife, just as busy, telling her to "quickly make bread for the strangers." He chose a steer and had it prepared for the meal for the three. After all had eaten, the time came for the Lord to reveal the fulfillment of his promise to Abraham - that this elderly, childless couple would have a son by the time they returned next year.

God's generosity towards Abraham and Sarah was much greater than Abraham's generosity towards them, confirming for us that "we can't beat God's giving - no matter how we try!"

In St. Paul's letter to the Colossians, he writes about how he rejoices in the dignity of suffering with Christ for His Church. Paul called his own sufferings the "tribulations" of Christ because of his intimate union with Him. The mystery that had been hidden from ages past, had been revealed to his holy ones.

The Gospel corresponds with the first reading in speaking about "busyness" that we sometimes find ourselves in, as opposed to spending quiet contemplative time with God.

Martha was busy being hospitable to the guests at their home, while Mary sat at Jesus' feet, listening to and learning from Him. Mary's actions agitated Martha who complained to Jesus because she felt that her sister should be in the kitchen helping her with preparations.

Jesus told Martha not to worry or be anxious about such things. Martha had made the decision to do housekeeping and preparations. Mary had made the decision to just rest and relax in Jesus' presence! Jesus told Martha that her sister had "chosen the better portion."

Sometimes we too, are so "busy" that we do not make the time for God that we should. Doing what God wants us to do, when He wants us to do it is the "better portion."

There are times when we need to just stop the busyness in our lives and just be in God's presence, contemplating... in that stillness of His presence is when we will better learn what He wants from us.

We can balance our lives by being active and contemplative.