Man does not live by bread alone

In the gospel of this 16th Sunday, we can discern two forms of spirituality as symbolized by the two sisters Martha and Mary.

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The busybody Martha symbolizes action or work, while Mary represents contemplation or prayer.

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According to the gospel, Martha is so upset and preoccupied about preparing a nice meal. She has become high-strung, and even snaps at Jesus! I’ve always been amused of Martha how she even brashly orders Jesus, saying, "Lord are you not concerned that my sister has left me all alone to do the household tasks? Tell her to help me." Martha’s dealing with the Lord sounds like that of a “mulier fortis.”

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Jesus did not lose his temper and could have shot back: “Don’t you know whom you’re ordering?”

Instead, Christ gently reproves her saying: "Martha, Martha! You fret and worry about so many things, but just one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the better portion" (Lk 10,41).

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