Hospitality is one of the qualities associated with Christianity. In today’s gospel much like that of last Sunday’s gospel about the “good Samaritan,"  Mary and Martha were called to be a neighbor to Jesus.
 
Welcome is a major part of hospitality. When we make ourselves available to others, we show our willingness to listen and learn about the things that are important to them.

The story of Martha and Mary expresses that both hospitality and listening teach us how to welcome Jesus. In our relationship with Jesus, we must find ways to be more present to him. Being more attentive to Jesus is the better part.

 Abraham and Sarah, Martha and Mary each found themselves in the presence of God and welcomed God in their midst. The Lord was warmly welcomed and each in their own way listened to him. Anxious and worried about many things, this gospel affirms that hospitality is about relationships with Jesus.