16th Sunday of Ordinary Time
The first reading takes place at the home of Abraham and Sarah. The Lord appears to Abraham at the entrance of his tent. Looking up, Abraham sees three men, recognizes them as sent by God, and he offers hospitality. Greeting them with humility, he washes their feet and, with the help of Sarah, prepares a meal of the finest ingredients available. Their hospitality is not just a duty, but a joyous act of service.
The gospel challenges us to ask why there is a drastic shift from the first two readings, which focus on the teaching of being hospitable. After greeting Jesus and serving everyone, Martha confronts Jesus. Her sister Mary has done nothing. Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? In Chapter 11 of John’s Gospel, Martha proclaims, “Yes, Lord, I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world. To Martha’s surprise, Jesus refuses to help but offers Martha an opportunity to reconsider. Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.
Unlike the joyful and heartfelt service of Abraham and Sarah, Martha’s service is marked by a lack of joy and heart. Jesus also makes it clear that he does not want to negotiate the family squabble. If your brother should commit some wrong against you, go and point out his fault. (Matthew 18:15).
It was on July 20, 1834, at the age of 23, that Peter Julian Eymard was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Grenoble – today, we celebrate the anniversary of a life that exemplified the selfless and joyful service we are called to in our faith journey.
Let Us Pray:
As we reflect on today’s readings, let us remember the examples of Abraham and Sarah’s hospitality, Paul’s love amid suffering, and Martha’s service, which lacked joy. Let us pray for the grace to serve with an eager and abundant heart, and to express ourselves lovingly when faced with offense. Amen.
