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Monday 17th Week in Ordinary Time
Retreat and Conference Center at Bon Secours
Memorial of St. Martha
July 29, 2019
A SENSE OF HOSPITALITY+++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø From the Gospels we know that Martha, Mary and Lazarus, 2 sisters and a brother, were close to Jesus
Ø Jesus must have felt comfortable with them and welcome in their home, for he visited several times
Ø Today we honor Martha, and she has 2 important messages for us
VALUE OF HOSPITALITY ++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø Martha shows us the value of hospitality
Ø St. Benedict often said the person at your door is Jesus himself and we should treat them that way
Ø Hospitality shows respect to a guest and creates a bond
Ø It makes someone there for the first time feel very comfortable
Ø It could create an opportunity for reconciliation if that is needed
Ø It creates an environment where Christ can be present and alive
Ø I’m reminded of Jesus’ words, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in their midst”
Ø The words apply even in a simple act of hospitality
Ø How welcoming are we at home or in our parish to strangers, people of color, or sexual orientation?
WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES ++++++++++++++++++
Ø Secondly, Martha helps us appreciate those who work behind the scenes
Ø That’s what Martha was doing here – getting the meal ready, and going largely unnoticed
Ø Those who work behind the scenes know what must be done to make someone welcome or make a good event happen for a large group
Ø Their efforts make hospitality happen and make relationships possible
Ø Who are the behind-the-scene folks in our lives that need our appreciation and thanks?
Ø Coworkers, team members, postal carrier, clerk?
CONCLUSION ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø So, our thanks to St. Martha for the value of hospitality and who support us behind the scenes
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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