Daily Scriptures Reflection for 10/9/12

St. Martha

Scripture: Lectionary 462. Galatians 1:13-24. Psalm 139:1-3.13-14.14-15. Luke 10:38-42:

Paul’s story of conversion is mentioned three times in the Acts of the Apostles, but today in Galatians we have the earliest reflection of Paul upon that momentous event in his life and in the lives of all Christians. Here is the amazing result of that experience that he shares so clearly in his letter to the Galatians written in 54 A.D.: “The time came when he who had set me apart before I was born and called me by his favor chose to reveal his Son to me, that I might spread among the Gentiles the good tidings concerning him.” There we have his divine commission to be the Apostle of the Gentiles. He himself knows this call better than anyone else; therefore, he shares it with us.

Psalm 139 is the most profound psalm which ponders the amazing act of creation that takes place in each one of us when we are conceived and born. This psalm is ideal as an insight in what it means to promote human life from the very beginning of it in the womb of our mothers.

It is a perfect prayer for those committed to the right to life which extends to all life at the beginning and at the end of our journey here on earth. Paul mentioned this above in his call; we have heard it from the book of Job, and now in a most detailed and explicit manner we hear of it in this beautiful psalm.

The Gospel demonstrates the virtues of hospitality and the gift of contemplating God in the person of Jesus. Both hospitality and contemplation are visibly seen in the actions of Martha and Mary. Both contribute to an enjoyable evening of a meal and relaxation in their home near Bethany. (Home of the Poor). While Martha is busy about the preparations that will make this a most pleasant evening for Jesus, Mary occupies her time with Jesus so that he would not be alone while the meal is being prepared by Martha. Both Mary and Martha are doing the right things to make this a wonderful time with Jesus. He is the greatest guest they could have and they offer the best in hospitality and love that money cannot buy. God bless these wonderful friends of Jesus and may we all have such friends in our lives. Amen.