BETTER, NOT BITTER

“Mary has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it.” –Luke 10:42

Mass Readings: October 10
First: Jonah 3:1-10; Resp: Psalm 130:1-4,7-8;Gospel: Luke 10:38-42

Listen to the Mass Readings

Jesus declared: “If you live according to My teaching, you are truly My disciples; then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (Jn 8:31-32). Mary did so in today’s Gospel reading. She sat beside the Lord’s feet and received the better portion.

The people of Nineveh also received the better portion. They, too, listened to the Lord’s words delivered through the prophet Jonah (Jon 3:1ff). The people of Nineveh repented and the Lord did not mark their iniquities (Ps 130:3-4; Jon 3:5), but rather marked their repentance (Jon 3:10). Repentant, humbled hearts and changed lifestyles (see Jas 4:6) are true indicators of having listened to the Word of God.

Incidentally, Martha also chose the better portion. Her words to Jesus in John 11:27 give evidence that she understood Jesus was the Messiah Who would bring eternal life. Indeed, Martha was the sister who became a canonized saint. The Ninevites and Martha received the correction of God’s Word and changed their lives to align with it. They could have become resentful and bitter. Instead, they repented and chose the better portion instead of the bitter portion.

PRAYER: Father, help me to choose to live a life spent meditating upon and obedient to Your Word.
PROMISE: “If You, O Lord, mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with You is forgiveness, that You may be revered.” –Ps 130:3-4
PRAISE: Betrayed by his business partner, Stephan put his trust in his Savior and forgave his former partner.