Usually, the followers of Christ want to please God and they make special efforts to live as he wants them to.
In general, Christians try to imitate Jesus as they see him in the gospel and they try to be faithful to what God expects of them.
Prayers, devotions, sacrifices, penance in different forms – all these are part of the means in use.
But often, people ask themselves whether they have chosen what is best…
Are they, in fact, using the right way, the proper ritual, the correct words to address God?
Today’s gospel message (Luke 10:38-42) may come as a relief to many.
We hear Jesus reassuring Martha in these words:
“Few things are needed, indeed only one.”
Amazing, really!
Truly astonishing and… comforting!
But what is this ONE thing?
Described as “the better part”, it is shown in Mary’s attitude: simply being present to God.
Could it be that simple?
We cannot doubt Jesus words: they are direct and clear.
It is not a question of words to say, or things to be done.
It is a question of being – being there with God and for God.
Being attentive to what he tells us,
open to what he asks from us,
ready to receive what he offers us.
And then?… The rest is up to him!
It is worth trying!…
Note: A video, in English, presents the scene of this gospel text at: https://youtu.be/mRe14dfXf6c
Another reflection is available on a different theme in French at: https://image-i-nations.com/16e-dimanche-de-lannee-c-2022/