The Gift of Presence: Lessons from Martha and Mary

07-20-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

The story of Martha and Mary is always memorable in the Gospel. It is memorable because it reveals a fundamental reality; God desires to be in human relationships, even in their imperfections. Jesus’ relationship with Martha, Mary and their brother Lazarus must have been special, as He visited them on several occasions. God is a God of relationship, and He created us to be in relation with Him. It is what we are made for—to be in relationship with God, one another, and His creation.

But unfortunately, like Martha, we can become selfish and self-absorbed and fail to appreciate the goodness of God right in our midst. On the other hand, Mary appreciates their friend Jesus and pays Him special attention. Mary sees the gift of the person while Martha can only see the work that needs to be done. Busyness and worry can impact our awareness of God’s presence in our daily lives. Building a habit of slowing down or centering on God’s presence in the moment can make a difference.

The world remains the same; we still have things to do, but we do them with peace, knowing that we are loved by God. How we treat people in the midst of our list of things to do and the busyness of life can reveal a lot about the deep peace in our hearts. Part of life at the lake is having visitors—shopping, cooking, cleaning, preparing, taking care of the lake toys, etc. I understand that is the reality for most parents and families every day.

I can find myself getting frustrated with all the stuff that needs to be done, and then miss the gift of the people. I try to stop and remember that doing the tasks out of love for others is a gift of giving of self. This scripture, reminds me that the balance of getting things done and appreciating the gift of others is a grace moment.

May we learn to savor and appreciate the time we spend with the Lord every Sunday and the people God places in our daily lives.

Peace and hope in Him,

Fr. Fred