Dear Parishioners,
Christmas is very near! Are you ready? Many people struggle with really being ready even after weeks of writing cards and gift shopping. Looking for the perfect gift and last minute shopping creates additional stress. It can be hard to say “enough” in our society of seemingly endless possibilities and expectations. One way to help us do this is by acknowledging the other priorities in our lives that also need our time and attention.
With Christmas being only days away, the things of God should be moving up higher and higher on our priority list. This is easier said than done, right? As Christians, we cannot let the expectations and lifestyles of society rob us of the peace and joy that God offers us at Christmas. We know that God offers this to us as a gift, but did you realize there is a hidden cost? The cost is the one that we find in the gospel story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42).
Just like at Christmas with us, Martha was “distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.” She was so caught up in her daily work, or even possibly trying to get things ready for Jesus, that she was missing what was most important. Jesus was interested in her, not in her cooking or cleaning. These things are important but not more important than devoting ourselves to God. As Martha was busy taking care of what she thought was important, her sister Mary was sitting at the feet of Jesus, absorbing everything about Him that she could, and experiencing a glimpse of heaven in doing so. When Martha tries to pull her sister away from being with Jesus, He tells her “Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her.”
The sacrifice that Martha needed to make is the same sacrifice that we must make. It is not easy, but still it is something we must do. This is true even for parents who must teach their children how to be Mary in a society that seems to demand of everyone to be Martha. As the children are learning to do this, they will probably “kick and scream” as they are learning the way of Christianity, but in the end they will likely appreciate the simple beauty of Christmas. However, the gains can quickly be lost if, after Christmas, they return to the way of Martha instead of the way of Mary.
If you are like me and want time to slow down, imitate Martha’s sister this week. Break free from the busyness of the world and focus on Jesus, who is the reason for the season. We could send out a few more Christmas cards or look for another gift for a family member or friend, but not if it takes away from our time to pray for them, especially the rosary, as we meditate on the Joyful Mysteries of Christ.
Prayerfully,
Fr. Miller