“FIRST IMPRESSIONS”
16 SUNDAY C
July 20, 2025
Genesis 18: 1-10; Psalm
15: 2-5;
Colossians 1: 24-28; Luke 10: 38-42
By: Jude Siciliano, OP
Dear Preachers:
In the Eastern world of Abraham’s time, hospitality was more than a social custom—it was a sacred obligation. Welcoming the stranger was seen as a religious virtue, since guests were often regarded as messengers or even manifestations of God. In ancient stories, divine visits were not rare. To our ancestors, a visit from a stranger could carry heavenly meaning.
We Christians retain traces of this tradition. Pilgrims and travelers were to be welcomed as if sent by God. St. Benedict instructed his monks to receive guests as Christ himself: “I was a stranger, and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). All were to be received as brothers and sisters in faith.
Today, in a suspicious and fast-paced world, such hospitality feels rare. That’s why Abraham and Sarah’s story remains so important – for our Jewish sisters and brothers, our ancestors in faith, and for us. Could it be that the stranger still brings light, perhaps even God’s presence? Many of us can recall an unexpected encounter that brought clarity, direction, or grace. Christ took on human flesh, and he continues to speak through others and through the ordinary moments of life.
The Letter to the Hebrews alludes to Abraham’s story when it says, “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels” (13:2).
In today’s Genesis reading, Abraham welcomes three strangers under the heat of the day. He leaves his tent, approaches them, and offers generous hospitality. They didn’t ask for help – Abraham took the initiative. There’s a lesson here: stay alert, keep your eyes open, and offer help before it’s requested—even when it means leaving our comfort zones. Abraham and Sarah’s hospitality is lavish and joyful. They don’t know yet that their visitors are messengers from God bearing the promise of life. Their kindness expects no reward.
[One of my favorite icons depicts this scene—the “Trinity Icon” by Andrei Rublev, c. 1430. It’s worth a look.]
In the Gospel, Jesus is not a stranger to Martha and Mary, but he is a traveler in need. The well-known story of their welcome shows two responses: Martha springs into action to provide hospitality, while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet to listen. Martha’s frustration with Mary is understandable. Wouldn’t many of us react the same way?
This story is often oversimplified – used to pit the contemplative life against the active one. But we need to look deeper. Before we criticize Martha for being too anxious or busy, let’s recall who she really is.
Martha is a disciple, initiator, and woman of strong faith. She welcomes Jesus into her home. She expresses deep faith even in grief after her brother’s death (Jn 11:1–44). She serves at a dinner in Bethany shortly before Jesus’ passion (Jn 12:1–3). And her confession – “You are the Messiah, the Son of God” (Jn 11:27) – is one of the clearest in all the Gospels.
Martha is honest with Jesus. She’s grounded, practical, and faithful. Like many of us, she juggles responsibilities while trying to live her faith. For all of us managing full lives, Martha is a powerful example of discipleship. Her story reminds us that service, rooted in faith, is holy. Martha’s home becomes a sacred place where Jesus is heard and cared for. It models what our parishes can be – places of welcome, presence, and love.
Martha invites us to bring Christ into our daily lives. She shows us that service and contemplation are not opposites, but two expressions of love. Her life reflects deep trust and a strong relationship with Christ.
Let her guide our prayer today. May we never be so anxious or distracted that we miss the quiet voice of the Lord inviting us to rest and trust. May we have the courage to speak honestly to Christ and to place our confidence in his promises. And may we recognize Christ in the ordinary tasks of life, letting both our work and prayer flow from our love of God.
Click here for a link to this Sunday’s readings: