One who walks blamelessly and does justice; who thinks the truth in his heart and slanders not with his tongue. He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 10:38-42, today's readings).

Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me." The Lord said to her in reply, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her."

Jesus visits the home of Martha and Mary. Martha welcomes him and is busy with preparing things and serving, while Mary simply sits at Jesus' feet, listening to him teach. Martha frustration becomes clear when she says to Jesus, "Lord, do you not care" and asks him to tell Mary to help her. Jesus gently responds, addressing Martha's anxiety and worry. At the same time, he gestures to Mary, who has chosen "the better part," focusing on his words—something that will not be taken away from her.

God, in the events of the day, help me see Jesus present with Martha and Mary. Each of them lovingly serves Jesus, but the better part is a calling Mary responds to that he always invites us to take up. If there were no Marthas in the world, I would lack the example of service and practical expression of love. If there were no Marys, I would lose sight of the vitality of spiritual depth and contemplation. In my own life, give me the grace to develop each part—love in service and love in contemplative listening. Help me today choose the better part as you make your presence known. Be with me, Lord.

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.