Inspiring Ignatian Quote #29
Today is the Feast of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus of Bethany, dear friends of Jesus. This is one of my favorite stories in the New Testament. It shows Jesus as a human friend, but always the teacher. Jesus entered Bethany and went to his friend’s home. Here Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying.” (Luke 10:39) Martha, on the other hand, “was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (40-42)
The better part . . . sitting at the feet of Jesus and listening. Poor Martha, had to be admonished by Jesus, to see this truth. I find this scripture hits home for me, as a creative, with endless ideas and projects, and ‘so little time’. My predominant charism is hospitality, so I totally relate to Martha. I’m sure she wanted to make sure the house was cleaned and a wonderful meal was prepared for their dear friend. My brother is here visiting with my niece, and I’ve been teaching her to make jelly and wanted to make cookies for my brother. Busy, busy, busy every day!
But during a moment together last night, I was showing them my weaving loom; I have wanted to learn to weave for decades! He quipped, “So, what’s your next hobby going to be?” Ouch! I was able to truthfully tell him that I have shed many hobbies, more out of force of my situation, rather than sheer will or decision, but I have hit pause on many of the activities I’ve treasured in past years. Many projects came with kids . . . or teen ministry . . . which are no longer a main focus of my day-to-day, and no longer a priority . . . sewing, quilting, home decor, cross-stitch, knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, genealogy, photography . . . did I say I was a creative?
It’s been a joy to discern what is it that I want to share most with others and how will it enhance their spiritual life? But, more importantly, prayer comes first, asking Jesus what He wants me to share this day? . . . so I think I am striking a balance, but truthfully, could spend so much more time listening to Jesus! I hear this story in my heart when I’ve become “too busy”, too rattled with ‘all I have to do’, let’s face it, overwhelmed!
I think that’s what Jesus and Ignatius are both trying to remind me: How is your soul work going, Nickie? When is the last time you really sat at the feet of Jesus and just listened? When have you been able to relish those special interior moments when your soul is content and satisfied? Mary knew exactly when and where it was important to be that particular day . . . simply sitting at the feet of Jesus and listening to what He had to say. How often are we like Martha, too busy to even hear what Jesus is saying, much less actually listening to Him? Do we even invite him in for a visit?
If we want to find peace and contentment, then we must find the time to rid ourselves of the distractions and take time to sit and listen!
I have to admit, that I do still crave the time to be creative and Creative Expression is one stream of offerings at Urban Sanctuary. I believe we are created by a Loving Creator to be creative and co-create beauty and peace in this world. I find the slow hand crafts of needlework, of pulling needle and thread through fabric, have a meditative quality that helps guide out distractions and find a focus. It is especially satisfying, when we can reflect on a scripture or pray for a special need while stitching.
There is a sense of contentment when we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us and use our unique gifts and talents to find a way to serve others. But, we must first listen: What is being asked of me at this time? Once we realize what is being asked of us, then we can relish the deepening of our relationship with our Creator.