Maybe it is that easy!

It’s easy to take a high-minded theoretical approach to today’s Gospel story of Mary and Martha. It’s certainly a passage that women find apt, but also controversial. I could go into the active/contemplative split in Christianity. I could go into the questions of first-century discipleship and Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus as an equal to his male followers. But this morning, all I can think about is water heaters. And how mine has suddenly stopped working. And how difficult it is to put myself into the right frame of mind as I get ready for church.

I had a lovely relaxing day yesterday sitting on the porch reading The Book That Need Not Be Named. A spectacular conclusion to the series and once again filled with hints of faith and trust, death and resurrection. I had planned to spend today doing much of the same, trading a book for my knitting needles and a new shawl pattern. We’re having an unseasonable spell of cool, clear weather in Cincinnati and I’ve lived here long enough to know that such days are few and far between in the summer. Then I filled the tub for a long, hot bath that wasn’t—not hot, so not long.

But I decided I’m going to take today’s Gospel to heart. It’s far too nice outside (and I do consider the weather an act of God!) to spend time either at Home Depot or in a dark, damp basement troubleshooting thermocouples and burner assemblies. It’s natural to fuss and let little details throw off my plans and dampen my mood. But maybe it really is just a choice to listen for the voice of God. Maybe it really is that easy. So I’m off to church and then a relaxing sabbath outside. Hot water is a luxury, not a necessity, and it’s good to remind myself of that.