There has always been a discussion amongst the followers of Jesus between active life and contemplative life. This tension makes us aware of a profound truth that’s important for our spiritual growth. They are, and ought to be complementary in the life of an individual and the community. Solitude and contemplation are healthy aspects of spiritual life. There will always be a need to contemplate and reflect no matter how active one’s life is.
In the Church, there are people who desire deeper understanding of God’s word and others who are content in doing good things. They complement each other. Problems are not always solved by simple actions or by clear reasoning. There is a need to slow down and hear the word of life. There are instances when wisdom is needed, instances when a caring heart or a helping hand brings the answer. There are times when we are happy to meet active people, and times when we feel good because of a kind neighbor. Mary and Martha personifies the active and contemplative life in the parish. We can all be very different, but none is better than the others. We all must do one thing that is needed, to sit down at Jesus’ feet, and we will learn and do the right thing.
