16th Sunday readings invite us into the heart of hospitality, presence, and discipleship. We begin with Abraham in Genesis 18. As he sits by the oak of Mamre, he sees three men approaching. Without delay, he runs to welcome them, offers water, rest, and food. Abraham doesn’t know at first that he’s entertaining the Lord Himself, but his generous hospitality opens the door to divine revelation: the promise of a son through Sarah.
This scene beautifully echoes in the Gospel, where Martha welcomes Jesus into her home. While Martha busies herself with many tasks, Mary sits at the feet of Jesus, listening. Martha is frustrated, but Jesus gently reminds her that Mary has chosen “the better part.”
What do these readings teach us?
First, that hospitality is sacred. Both Abraham and Martha welcome the presence of God into their homes. But hospitality isn’t only about food and chores, it’s about presence and attentiveness. Mary shows us that the most profound hospitality is listening to God, making space in our hearts for God.
Second, there’s a balance to be struck. Martha’s service is not wrong. Her activity, like Abraham’s, is essential. But Jesus reminds her, and us, that even good things can become distractions if they prevent us from being fully present to the Lord. There’s a “time to serve” and a “time to sit.”
The Third element comes from St. Paul, in our second reading, which reveals discipleship through suffering and proclamation. He speaks of his joy in suffering for the sake of Christ’s body and of the mystery now revealed: Christ in us, the hope of glory. Hospitality and presence lead to transformation, and transformation leads to mission.
The question then is: Are we too busy to sit at the feet of Jesus? Do we welcome Him into our lives with joyful hearts, not just into our homes but into our minds, routines, and relationships?
So, may we, like Abraham, Martha, Mary, and Paul, welcome Christ, whether by service, silence, or sacrifice, and allow Him to dwell richly in us. For in welcoming Him, we receive the better part: life, hope, and glory. Amen!
Your Priest,
Fr. Charles Enyinnia
