SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
FIRST READING: Genesis 18: 1- 10a
RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 15:2-3a.3bc-4ab.5 (R. 1a)
SECOND READING: Colossians 1:24-28
GOSPEL READING: Luke 10:38-42
FRANCISCA EKWEGBALU
I will like to do my own reflection by looking at the above question.
Abraham in the first reading welcomed the Angels into his house and served them, and his action was received approval and blessings.
In the gospel reading, Martha also welcomed Jesus to her house and was focused on serving Him.
Why did her service not receive the same approval from Jesus?
Reflecting on this question, this is what came to my mind.
Abraham welcomed the Angels and told them what he wants to do and they gave him the permission to go ahead.
In the gospel reading, we were not told that Martha had any interaction with Jesus to find out what He wants her do, or if He will appreciate what she wants to do for Him.
She probably went ahead to start preparing something for the Lord which may not be in accordance with the reason of His visit.
That is why he said that Mary has chosen the better part.
What I can take away from this is that, it is important to listen to the Lord and discern what exactly her wants you to do before embarking in any service.
It is not that service in the house of the Lord is not good, but most times, in the process of serving, we get distracted from the Lord just like Martha did.
In anything we are doing, we must hold fast the word of God in an honest and good heart so that our services will be in accordance with the will of God and bring forth good fruits.
May God give us the grace to know when to sit at His feet and be fed with His words and when, where and how to render services to the Lord both in the Church, our families and in the community through Christ our Lord. Amen
OR-ONGU HEMBAFAN FELICITY
The first reading highlights Abraham's righteousness,his faith and his eagerness to serve God through acts of kindness and generosity. It is a reminder to us that our kindness to our brethren should not be selective. We should also acknowledge God's presence in who ever comes in contact with us because God can bless us through people we least expect.May God instill in us his spirit of discernment.
STEPHEN UDOFIA
Imagine Jesus came to your house today, would you sit with Him and listen, or get too busy trying to make everything perfect?
We hear how Abraham welcomed three visitors kindly, and because of that, God blessed him with a big surprise, a baby! Then, we meet two sisters, Mary and Martha. Martha was busy-busy trying to serve Jesus, but Mary just sat, listened, and enjoyed being close to Him. Jesus said Mary made the better choice.
So, the big lesson is: sometimes, the best thing we can do is just be with God, listen to Him, and welcome others with love. Jesus wants us to have hearts that are open, peaceful, and ready to notice Him in quiet moments and in the people around us. Isn’t that amazing?
OKORONKWO IFEOMA VIVIAN
My Reflection
1: HOSPITALITY: Abraham shows remarkable hospitality, welcoming strangers and providing them with food and shelter. This teaches us the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.
2: GENEROSITY: Abraham's generosity is evident in his actions, demonstrating the value of selflessness and giving.
3: FAITH AND TRUST: Abraham's interaction with the visitors showcase his faith and trust in God's plan, even when he doesn't fully understand it.
The gospel highlight the importance of treating others with kindness, having faith and trusting in a higher plans. May God help us to be generous in Jesus name. Amen.
CHINWE ANN UDECHUKWU
MY REFLECTION
The story of Mary and Martha in the Gospel passage teaches us the importance of hospitality and also reveals the balance between service and spiritual attentiveness.
Martha's desire to serve Jesus portrayed a heart willing to provide and care for visitors and this is a great virtue especially in this era that wolves are in sheep's clothing.
Also Mary's desire to be with Jesus portrays that the essence of hospitality is connection and relationship not just activity, which involves good listening, if we compare it to this era walahi wahala go dey, because you will see two people in same bed but yet everyone to your own phone.
The story teaches us that hospitality is important not only in physical service but in spiritual attentiveness. Welcoming Christ and others into our lives means making space to listen, connect, and be present, not just to serve. True hospitality reflects love, balance, and the willingness to place Christ at the center of all we do.
Lord Jesus, teach me to welcome You not just with my hands, but with my heart. Help me to balance my service with stillness, and to know that the most important thing is simply being with You. May I always choose the better part. Amen.
