Commentary on the Gospel of
If Martha too were to sit at the Lord’s feet, then who would do the chores? If Mary were to join Martha in cooking and serving, who would sit at the Lord’s feet? Choosing between Martha and Mary is difficult. What do we do?
Perhaps we can gain much by combining both the roles within us, instead of dividing them between us. We can busy ourselves with the daily chores, all the while keeping our heart resting at the feet of the Lord. We can plunge into the world of action while remaining centered on the Lord. We can be thoroughly active in the world with a contemplative heart. We can play Martha while being Mary, and vice versa.
And how do we do it – being actively engaged in the world with a heart resting on the breast of God? There are many ways, but let me suggest two practical ways you can do it, using two forms of prayer: the Jesus Prayer and the Centering Prayer. Familiar with these forms of prayer? If yes, begin practising. If not, google for these forms to learn about them and begin practising. [You don’t expect me to give you the entire methodology of these prayers, here, do you? Get up and do a Martha!]
Paulson Veliyannoor, CMF - frpaulson@gmail.com
