a little more respect for St. Martha

 Saturday was the feast of saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus. Martha's behavior in the bible story always gets the critical eye, doesn't it? Jesus told her that her concern for earthly things was inferior to a concern for spiritual ones. And we always think of her slightingly when her name is mentioned. As if we are any different. 

Anyway, Magnificat had a hymn for that day which shows her in a different light, which seemed rather nice for a change. 

Saint Martha, we recall the joy
Of which your energy gave proof,
When opportunity was yours
To welcome Christ beneath your roof.

Alert and eager with much care,
Your ardent soul could find no rest,
In many things solicitous
To please so greatly loved a Guest.

While you prepare a festal board
At which he will have honored place,
Your brother and your sister draw
From him the food of life and grace.

O blessed hostess of your Lord,
Make our hearts ready like your own,
To welcome him to their abode
To find in them true friendship's throne.

-  Anselme Lentini *

translated by the nuns of St. Cecilia Abbey, Isle of Wight

From Magnificat, July 2023 -

You have called some to the service of work and some to the service of prayer:
                             - grant us mutual respect and support as we seek to further your kingdom.

You have called some to serve in public ways and some to serve in the privacy of the home:
                             - keep us all faithful to the tasks you have given us.

You have called some to serve in active ways and some to serve by suffering:
                             - sustain us all in faith, hope and love.

                                                   in Jesus' name. Amen.