by Eugene Claire Espino and Earl Raymond Galang
As the Dominicans come near to the end of the 27th Family Rosary Crusade, Rev. Fr. Jan Brian S. Samson shared how the day's gospel has become one of the most misinterpreted and misunderstood gospels in all of the stories in the life of Jesus Christ.
With the theme: “Maria: Huwaran ng Tapat na Paglilingkod”, and in celebration of the Feast of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, Fr. Samson shared a story that speaks about the misconception of people about Martha and Mary.
In contrast to what has been known to most people, Fr. Samson justified Martha’s actions through explaining the culture of Jews.
He emphasized that in the context of Jews, women are perceived as the ones who would prepare and serve the visitors, similar to Asians who value hospitality and that discipleship is only for men.
However, even though there was nothing wrong with what Martha did, Fr. Samson mentioned that she just forgot the most important thing one should give to their visitors - attention.
He also pointed out that like Martha, Jesus calls on us to listen to His teachings - but sometimes, we are too preoccupied with doing things that we thought are for the betterment of our service. What we often forget is that the most important thing to deepen our relationship with God is to pray.
“Walang mas mauuna pa roon sa dapat may malalim na relasyon tayo sa Diyos”, Fr. Samson said.
Fr. Samson shared that we should be like Mother Mary and St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, who devoted their lives to God through serving and praying - with an honest faith in His plans.
Fr. Samson ended his homily with a quote from Mother Theresa: “you are called not to be successful, but to be faithful.”
We are not just called to be successful in life, to be rich, to be popular, or to have peace in the family, society, jobs, and studies - but most importantly, we are called to be faithful to God. That our faith only deepens in praising and reflecting the Words of God.
We can be Maria and Martha at the same time, where there is no protagonist or antagonist; we can just do what we need to do as a Christian, but never forget to strengthen our relationship with God.
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