May 20, 2009

St. Martha - "Patron Saint of Preoccupied Women"


We are told in the Gospels of Luke and John that Jesus spent time at the home of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus in Bethany.  On one occasion, Martha is frustrated because she has been busy around the house while her sister, Mary, sat and listened to Jesus.  Martha goes so far as to ask Jesus to tell Mary to come help her.  Jesus answers Martha by saying that what Mary had chosen to do was better.


Have any of you ever had that discussion of whether you are a Martha or a Mary?  I know I have on many occasions.  There are times when we need to cook, clean and make necessary preparations like Martha, but we must not forget to spend quiet time with Jesus.  Even though cooking and cleaning are not always my favorite things to do, I still manage to find other distractions.


When we get distracted by our worries and frustrations, we can remember that we are not alone.  St. Martha felt that way too.  We can also remember that we need to slow down and spend some time with God in prayer.


Patron Saint of:  Housewives, Cooks, Restaurants, and Hosts

Feast Day:  July 29

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