Anyone Who Works for God Toils with Full Measure!

July 20, 2025 Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Genesis 18:1-10a; Colossians 1:24-28; Luke 10:38-42

Patriarch Abraham and Martha, the sister of Lazarus and Mary, are presented as models of hospitality. Yet their gestures must be viewed from different perspectives. While Martha and her family were close friends of Jesus, Abraham received three unknown visitors by the oaks of Mamre, who later revealed themselves to be none other than God.

Abraham's actions are deeply humble, respectful, and exemplary. A Sanskrit saying, Atithi Devo Bhava, meaning “The guest is God,” captures this well. Abraham lives out this principle, offering the best: freshly baked bread, tender calf meat, curds, and milk. Like a faithful servant, he stands nearby as they eat. At that moment, one of the visitors prophesies that Sarah, Abraham’s wife, would bear a son.

St. Paul’s declaration, “…and in my flesh I am completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the Church” (Col 1:24), is profound. While Christ’s suffering is once and for all and salvific, Paul considers his own suffering a meaningful addition, not in merit, but in ministry. He willingly endures hardship for the sake of the Church. Paul knows he is chosen as a servant of the Gospel not for his own glory, but to reveal God’s mystery among the Gentiles. His goal is to help all grow mature in Christ. His mission is marked by untiring zeal and wholehearted toil, never with half measures.

The Gospel passage is set in Bethany, near Jerusalem. Jesus, likely a frequent guest at this household, is received by Martha and Mary. On this visit, Mary sits at the feet of Jesus, listening attentively, while Martha, burdened by the tasks of hosting, complains about her sister’s inactivity. Jesus gently affirms that while service is necessary, Mary has chosen the better part, attentive discipleship.

Sitting at Jesus’ feet symbolizes the beginning of true discipleship, a relationship deeper than familial ties, one that is enduring: “…which will not be taken away from her” (v. 42c). Jesus often expanded the idea of family, placing God the Father at the center (cf. Matthew 12:46–50). He taught that those who listen to the Word of God and live it out are members of His true family (cf. Luke 11:28).

Call to Action: Whatever approach we take in life, whether through service or contemplation, let us never lose sight of the one thing necessary: the Word of God at the center of it all.