Monday, July 19, 2010

The Inner Martha

Today in Niagara-on-the-Lake:  At 9:30 a.m., it's overcast and grey, with 94% humidity making 72*F/22C feel hot and sticky despite the light breeze.  Feels like rain, and a few showers are predicted for this afternoon.  It's dark for morning, and all the cars' lights are glowing as they pass...my kind of day!

Those of you who have been following The Angel Ladies know that I am an ordained deacon in the Community Catholic Church (all of the Catholic, none of the Pope).  On Sunday mornings, on Blogtalkradio, Deb and I offer a worship service (not a Mass, more like morning prayer in the tradition of the Divine Office).  Lately, Deb has invited me to take part in the homily, making it more of a discussion rather than a sermon. 

Yesterday's gospel was that of Mary and Martha.  The story is one familiar to Christians:  Jesus and company stop over at M&M's house; Martha bustles about, taking care of the guests while Mary settles comfortably to listen to what Jesus has to say.  Martha eventually gets tired of doing all the work and complains to Jesus, asking him to make Mary help her, which was the accepted role for women at that time.  Jesus, however, rebukes Martha, telling her that she is worried and distracted by many things.  'There is need of only one thing.  Mary has chosen the better part," he decides and does not send Mary off to work.

The holy stories of the many religions are like onions: they have layer after layer of meaning, and this one is no different.  We discussed several aspects of the story, but one of the most pertinent is on my mind this morning. 

"You are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing."

We get the point: don't let physical considerations distract you from your spiritual growth.  This is a toughie for us, as our physical needs are genuine and important.  They can, however, overwhelm us.

Our clients tell us this repeatedly.  They don't have time for workshops, much less readings and visits with friends and girls' nights out and even simple relaxing, and why?  They have work to do, a home to keep, children to ferry, etc., etc.  There is simply no time for the hobbies they love, the relaxation they crave, the spiritual activities they long to enjoy.

Maybe you too?  The truth is that of course there is time to devote to their spirit - the same 24-hours each day that we all enjoy. 

Will things have to shift and change to accommodate their desired activities?  Yes.  Might they have to delegate some things and discard others?  Certainly. Might the family have to help with dinner and housekeeping?  Of course (and it's a wonderful thing for the family as well as the mother). 

Will the shift be smooth and easy?  Probably not.

But the most important question is this:  After the simplifying and reorganization, is it worth it? 

We're devoting ourselves to putting things in proper order - spirit first!  Join us, and let us know how it goes.

Hope your day is a great one!

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