So often we deprive ourselves of quiet time with Jesus and then try to deprive others of it as well. "A waste of time," we say. Or, "My work is my prayer." Here Jesus dares to contradict us.

SHE SITS AND LISTENS

Mary "seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to his words." She does no work, even though there is work to be done. She leaves others to do the necessary tasks. She doesn't preach or evangelize. She doesn't feed the hungry, clothe the naked, or assist the poor. All she does is sit and listen to Jesus.

Many of us are upset by this. We are much more comfortable with a spirituality that "baptizes" our hectic life of constant work for Jesus. We are "busy about many things." Entrepreneurs for Jesus ... that’s us! Always looking for opportunities to do big things for Jesus. Workaholics for Christ, we "lose ourselves" in work for the poor so that we will never have to face our own inner poverty. "Lord, are you not concerned that my sister has left me to do the household tasks alone? Tell her to help me." That’s right, Jesus. Tell me you want and need all my work and effort.

ONE THING IS REQUIRED

Jesus answers us in gentle rebuke. "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset about many things; one thing only is required." Jesus does not require our work, our projects, or our evangelistic zeal. He requires only our love of him. We have only to sit at his feet and listen to him to meet the requirements of Christ. A heart of devotion and love pleases him more than a life of constant distraction in his name.

Some set aside undistracted time to be alone with an earthly lover, why not all the more for our Divine Lover? He wants a personal love relationship that is unhurried and intimate, not a corporate agreement or work contract that is more fitting for a business relationship. Take time with Jesus today and you will end up having better times with others

John Michael Talbot

Painting by Jan Vermeer van Delft, public domain