Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way. — Psalm 139:24b

Mass Readings: Galatians 1:13-24 / Luke 10:38-42 

Hearts and Hands 

I used to work for my uncle raising tobacco. It was very hard work, and if — for whatever reason — one of my cousins wasn’t doing his share the rest of us grumbled against him, much like Martha in today’s Gospel. She was trying to do the right thing, especially in a culture that greatly valued hospitality and honored the women who provided it. 

So why did Jesus let Mary off the hook? One reason might be that Mary was actually giving Jesus a more treasured gift: her heart. Jesus is ultimately desirous of our hearts, confident that if He has those, our hands will follow. While He doesn’t reject the gift of our hands, He won’t remain satisfied with only our service, but seeks all our love as well. 

Prayer: Jesus, help me to give You everything: heart and hands.