First Reading - Genesis 18:1-10
Second Reading - Colossians 1:24-28
Gospel - Luke 10:38-42
One of the most profound experiences of faith is realizing that God is not distant, but draws near to us—often in quiet, unexpected ways. Today’s readings speak to us about hospitality, attentive listening, and the living presence of God in our everyday lives.
In the first reading, Abraham welcomes three mysterious visitors at the entrance of his tent. He receives them with generosity and care, not fully knowing who they are. It is a simple act of hospitality that reveals a heart open to others. But within this encounter lies something extraordinary: the Lord Himself is visiting Abraham. And through this humble gesture, Abraham receives an unexpected promise—his wife Sarah will bear a son. This story reminds us that God often reveals Himself through the people we welcome, and that true hospitality can open the door to divine blessing.
In the Gospel, we find another domestic scene: Jesus is a guest in the home of Martha and Mary. The two sisters respond in different ways. Martha is busy with the preparations, while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, listening to His words. When Martha complains, Jesus does not rebuke her for serving, but gently reminds her that Mary has chosen “the better part.” This is not a dismissal of service, but a call to prioritize what truly matters: the presence of God and the attentive listening of His word.
The second reading shows us Paul as someone who has chosen this “better part.” He speaks of rejoicing in his sufferings for the Church because he is sharing in Christ’s afflictions. His mission is to proclaim the mystery once hidden but now revealed: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Paul has welcomed Christ deeply into his heart, and that presence has transformed him into a tireless servant of the Gospel.
Dear brothers and sisters, today’s readings call us to discernment: do we recognize God when He comes to visit us? Do we see Him in the faces that knock on our door, in the poor, the stranger, and in the quiet moments of prayer?
We are like Martha when we become overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, even in the name of doing good. But Mary reminds us that without listening and contemplation, our service can lose its center. Serving is vital—but first we must be still before the Lord, listen to Him, and allow His word to shape us. Then our service will be rooted in peace, not in anxiety.
Like Abraham, may we welcome the Lord even when He appears in unexpected ways. Like Mary, may we choose the better part by sitting at the feet of Christ. And like Paul, may we allow Christ to transform us, so that our lives become a living witness to His love.
May the Lord grant us the grace to recognize His visit, to choose what truly matters, and to bear fruit in our service—grounded in listening, rooted in love.
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