Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It seems that a number of our fellow citizens have become “fast-food junkies”; at least that is what has been reported by social media. From time to time we have all succumbed to the arches, or the pig-tailed little girl, or the crown. You know what I mean. The rapid pace of life has pushed us there. This observation is not an indictment against these institutions, but rather a reflection on how accelerated our lives have become. For instance, have you noticed, especially on newscasts, how quickly people speak anymore? Our mouths are faster than our thoughts and rather than focus on what has been said we tend to drift and thus miss what really is being conveyed.

Poor Martha found herself in a similar situation in today’s Gospel. She missed what our Lord was saying because of her hectic life. Her preoccupation with getting things done, which were out of genuine charity, caused her to miss out on encountering the very Source of charity Himself.

Certainly, progress in spiritual growth is a sane balance between the active and contemplative dimensions of life. We are indeed called to be both Martha and Mary in our pursuit of Christ. And so it begins with discernment: “how do I balance the two?” First, we slow down; second, we practice silence; third, surrender: “here I am Lord. Do with me what YOU will.” These are very simple steps but it really is a challenge to bring them into a healthy practice. Pray, asking our dear Lord and His Mother to show us the way.

With Blessings,

Father Langan