On Loving God: Why Sometimes the Best Thing Is to Stop
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year C
Genesis 18:1–10a | Psalm 15 | Colossians 1:24–28 | Luke 10:38–42
Have you ever been so busy doing good things that you forgot why you were doing them?
Maybe you’ve volunteered, studied hard, helped others, served at Mass or on a retreat team—and still felt disconnected from God. That’s not failure. It’s a common struggle. And today’s Gospel gets right to the heart of it.
Jesus visits the home of two sisters—Martha and Mary. Martha is busy preparing the meal, serving, making sure everything’s just right. Mary simply sits at Jesus’ feet, listening. When Martha finally gets fed up and complains to Jesus, she expects Him to agree with her. After all, she’s the one doing all the work!
But Jesus gently says:
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things. Only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken from her.” (Luke 10:41–42)
This isn’t a criticism of service—it’s a reminder about love.
Martha was doing things for Jesus but missed being with Him.
And what about Mary? She reminds us that before we do anything for God, we need to listen to Him. That’s what loving God with our whole heart, soul, strength, and mind (Luke 10:27) looks like—first hearing His word, then responding.
Perhaps Abraham best embodies the spirit of both sisters’ hospitality. He welcomes three mysterious visitors into his tent, not knowing they are messengers from God. Like Martha, instead of doing the bare minimum, he prepares a generous feast and serves with love. But like Mary, he is present and listens attentively and in that moment, God’s promise is spoken: his wife Sarah will have a child.
Maybe you’ve felt like Martha—stressed, burnt out, wondering if God notices your effort. Or maybe you’ve felt like Mary—drawn to God but unsure if you’re “doing enough.” The truth is: both have something to teach us. But Jesus points us toward Mary’s posture as the one that leads to rest, clarity, and real love.
Saint Paul, in the second reading, speaks about his ministry as a servant of the Gospel. He’s focused, not distracted. His work flows from the mystery he’s encountered: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
What about us?
Today, Jesus might be gently calling you by name:
“You’re worried. You’re distracted. Sit with me. Listen.”
The world is loud. Life is full. But love starts in stillness.
So if you’ve been feeling spiritually dry, overworked, or unsure of where you stand with God—stop for a moment. Not to quit. But to sit. Like Mary. And listen.
Because that’s where love begins.
That’s where we remember who He is—and who we are.