Day 23

Scripture: 1 John 4:9–10 — “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

Clip: Mary and Martha

Reflection:

This is the paradox of love. Martha’s love was anxious, distracted service. Mary’s love was focused, quiet presence. Jesus gently corrects Martha, not because her service was wrong, but because her anxiety had choked her love. God’s love for us was shown in this: He sent His Son—not just a list of instructions, but Himself. He came to be with us. The “one thing necessary” is to receive that presence before we rush into service.

Prayer:

Lord, I am Martha. I am so busy serving You that I have no time to sit with You. My love has become anxious and resentful. Forgive me. Remind me that You came to be with me. Quiet my distracted heart and help me choose the “one thing necessary” today: to sit at Your feet.

Practice:

Pray for someone who is suffering — physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Ask God to pour His healing love over them.

From CCC:
“Moved by love, the Son of God became man so that we might be reconciled to the Father.” (CCC 457)

From YOUCAT:
“Because God is love, He could not keep distant from our misery; His compassion became flesh.” (YOUCAT 80)