Being a follower of Jesus often means sacrificing oneself for the sake of others. We’ve all learned about sharing our time, talent, and treasure to further God’s kingdom, and in the first reading we see a very generous example. Abraham and his household “rolled out the red carpet” for their three guests, providing rest, shade from the hot sun, and a lavish meal…all for three men who apparently just happened to be passing by. In return for the hospitality, the Lord (who Abraham presumably did not recognize) promised Abraham that within a year he and Sarah would have a son. Jesus told us that whatever we do for others, we do for Him. God is extremely generous and pays back in abundance anything we do for Him…that sharing of time, treasure and talent will not go unnoticed or unrewarded. Most certainly we store up treasure in heaven, but we will also be provided for in this life. The gospel, however, shows us another important aspect of following Jesus; that of “sitting at his feet and listening.” At times, at least for me, it’s easy to get so wrapped up in various actions that its hard to find time to simply “listen”; to read God’s Word and reflect on it. Yet Jesus tells us how important that activity is when He says, ”Mary has chosen the better part” by choosing to sit at His feet and listen rather than helping Martha. May we all find the time and the desire to both serve Jesus and learn from Him. Reflection by parishioner, John Ceglarek