The Model of Hospitality

Gospel: Luke 10: 38-42

Martha and Mary are often seen as representatives of the active and contemplative life in religion, a later interpolation of their story to be sure.  The original context of their presence in the Gospel stories is their model of hospitality that was the core of ancient religion and ethics, a foundation nearly erased in modern religion.   For it is much easier to muse on the abstractions of action and contemplation, much more difficult to apply the practice of hospitality to others.  

Martha is about the important business of providing food and drink to Jesus and his disciples who are those for whom she is offering hospitality.  The food and drink is important; the table is where hospitality is provided.  Yet, more important than the food and drink is our presence and attention to those for whom we offer hospitality.  To provide a listening ear and a friendly disposition to those at our table is the most fundamental element of the practice of hospitality.

In the mind and practice of Jesus, this hospitality is extended to all at table - friend and stranger, ally and enemy, native and foreigner.  For to be present to the guest is to become aware of the presence of Jesus among us, the presence of Jesus in the person at table with us.  Today's feast reminds us of these truths that we might practice them in our homes, our churches, and communities throughout the world.  That these ideas may seem alien to us today shows us how far we have strayed from the origins of our faith.