Tuesday 10 October 2023

Today is Tuesday 10 October, in the 27th week of Ordinary time.

Salt of the Sound sings, ‘Turn your eyes upon Jesus.’ Why not take a moment to do just that? Begin turning your eyes upon Jesus as we step into a time of prayer.


Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of the earth
Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
In the light of His glory and grace

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.


Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’

Today, Luke tells a well-known, much-loved story in the life of Jesus, visiting the home of friends. You might like to pause for a moment to picture Martha as she welcomes Jesus into her home.

Perhaps you have a busy day ahead of you; many demands, distractions where at times you may feel pulled apart, stressed by all that needs to be done.


Take time to stop and imagine that Jesus is at your door. How do you welcome Him?

Consider for a moment Mary as she sits at the feet of Rabbi Jesus. Shocking, defiant, yet still and focused.


Mary has chosen her place. Reflect on times when you have chosen to be with Jesus. Perhaps on retreat, reading from scripture, a piece of music or a special place. What is it like to feel so near to Jesus?


As we hear the passage again, imagine yourself in the home of Martha and Mary. Watch, listen, be aware of the feelings that stir in you as the scene unfolds before you. Which character do you feel most drawn to?

The story needs both women to tell it. How does this speak to you, in your life of distraction and stillness? How will you defy protests and not budge, choosing to be still and know God? Share your thoughts and emotions with the God who waits for you.


Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.