Martha’s only mistake was comparing herself to her sister. If God asks YOU to do something then do it with all your heart and do it with joy! Don’t waist your time worrying about whether God is being fair by asking or expecting something different from your neighbor.

Martha’s sister Mary is the model disciple in terms of devotion and prayer. A soldier doesn’t go into battle without first receiving his or her orders. A fire truck doesn’t leave the station without first being given the location of the fire and a disciple should not begin the day without sitting at the feet of the Master. Our work should be the fruit of our prayer and our prayers should precede, sustain and follow our work.

For us who are Catholic the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the source and summit of our faith life. It is the greatest prayer that we can participate in. All we do flows from it and moves toward it. In the Mass our imperfect offerings are joined with the perfect offering of Christ ~ THIS is what makes our sacrifices acceptable in God’s eyes.

It is offered through Jesus, with Him and in Him in union with the Holy Spirit. In the Mass ~ and hopefully, in our lives ~ Martha and Mary come together. Like Martha, we rehearse and practice and serve with the dedication of one who believes that everything depends on us but like Mary, we worship and pray as if everything depends on God.