Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament

October 6, 2026

Jesus is a gentle but determined teacher with a wonderful message when he speaks with the apostles. What to wear, where to go, what to eat, what to do: all of these are incidentals, sidelines that can steal attention away from the Anointed One, the Messiah who brings God’s salvation message for all of humankind.

Luke’s narrative describes the Lord’s visit to the home of Martha and Mary. Mary goes at once to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to his teaching. Martha is no doubt a bit shocked that her sister (a woman) has, by her actions, declared herself a student and disciple of the Master! Still, Martha goes bustling about, caring for visitors as expected by Jewish Law and custom. She is peeved: her sister offers no help at all. She vents to Jesus. His word to her and to us: step away from anxiety and worry about little things. Look to me, and I will focus your whole mind and spirit on my plan for your salvation!

Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles, passed through the region of Galatia many times, often stopping to preach. We focus on his Letter to the Galatians all week. The apostle is very concerned: several itinerant preachers had passed through the region, telling his converts that they must honor all the Jewish rites before becoming Christians! So Paul reintroduces himself with the story of his former life, then his miraculous conversion, dropping some big names from Jerusalem along the way: Cephas (Peter) and James, the brother of Jesus. We will hear more later, as Paul calms the worry and anxiety of his new Christians.

And do not forget our own Apostle, Saint Peter Julian, who directs our gaze to the source and summit of our life in Christ: the Holy Eucharist.

Let us pray:

Dear God, we pledge to keep “our eyes on the prize” of salvation with you forever. Thank you for the divine nourishment you have given us: the Holy Body and Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.