Balancing Act: Finding the Better Part in a Busy World

This week’s Gospel readings, taken from chapters ten and eleven of Luke’s Gospel, centre on prayer and contemplation. As I carried out my priestly duties, I found myself continually reflecting on the story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42). In this passage, Jesus visits their home, and while Mary sits at His feet, listening intently, Martha is busy with the tasks of hospitality. Frustrated, Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus gently responds, telling Martha that she is anxious about many things, while Mary
has chosen the “better part”—being fully present to Him.

Now this scripture hits hard because, like Martha, I’m a bit of a doer. I love getting stuff done and going on adventures and I dislike sitting still. So for me, it’s a timely reminder that spending quality time with Jesus (or even “wasting time with Jesus” as some like to say) is very important and is nourishing for the soul. In Mary and Martha we see the two types of discipleship – active discipleship and contemplative discipleship, and both are important! The Church could not function effectively without people praying and reflecting and deepening their relationship with God. Nor could the Church function effectively without various initiatives and outreaches such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes and homeless shelters. Prayerful contemplation goes hand-in-hand with prayerful action. Both are important.

Though both action and contemplation are important, Jesus highlights that Mary has chosen the “better part,” referred to in Latin as Unum necessarium, meaning “the one thing necessary.” In our spiritual lives, this points to a key truth: our hearts must be centred on the one essential thing—Jesus. While Martha was scattered, busy with many tasks, Mary focused solely on the presence of Christ. We all lead busy lives with countless demands, but when we place Jesus at the centre and strive to do everything for the greater glory of God, everything else finds its proper place.

So, don’t be afraid to “waste” time with Jesus today. I assure you, only good things will come from it! When we prioritise Him, our lives will naturally fall into balance.

Enjoy your week! Fr Gerard.