THE BETTER PART

July 20, 2025 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C Luke 10:38-42 There are days in ministry when I feel like Martha—pulled in many directions, doing what I believe is necessary and good, yet deep inside, there’s a quiet ache for something more. This Gospel reminds me that even in service to God, I can get lost in the work and forget the One I’m working for. Jesus does not scold Martha for serving; He lovingly invites her to something deeper—to choose the better part, as Mary did: to pause, to listen, to simply be with Him. I’ve learned the hard way that when prayer is compromised, everything else slowly begins to unravel. Without moments of silence, my words become shallow; without time at His feet, even sacred responsibilities feel heavy. Ministry without prayer becomes performance. But when I make time to sit with Jesus, even briefly, I rediscover the peace and purpose behind the calling. In the chaos of life, listening to Jesus is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline. We live in a Martha’s world—rushed, noisy, always demanding more. But I pray to live with Mary’s heart: a heart that treasures presence over productivity, intimacy over activity. The “better part” is not found in doing more, but in being with the Lord more. In every homily, every visit, every decision, I want to carry not just a mission—but the stillness of someone who has sat with the Master. That’s the only way I can keep going. That’s the only way I can truly serve. NB: The better part is listening before serving. Kneeling matters more than moving. Friend, do not lose the One you’re serving. Blessings Fr. Jhack