Can we go beyond our comfort zones?
The 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time invites us to reflect on two biblical stories,
and how they connect with our daily lives here in sunny Florida. As we enjoy the
summer heat, it’s natural to talk about the rising temperatures outside. The word
“hot” effectively describes the intensity of our summer days, much like the
conditions Abraham and Martha faced in today’s readings.
In the first reading from the book of Genesis, Abraham is sitting at the
entrance of his tent during the hot midday sun. Many of us know what it feels like
to seek relief when the temperature rises. Instead of ignoring the three travelers
approaching, Abraham gets up and warmly welcomes them. His kind and
generous spirit is revealed; he doesn’t let the heat or any inconvenience stop him
from offering hospitality. His virtues of righteousness, kindness, and concern for
others, opens the door to divine blessings, including the promise of a son.
Abraham’s actions inspire us to reflect on those moments when we face a
choice between kindness and indifference. How many opportunities do we have
to help others yet choose to stay in our comfort zones instead? Jesus reminds
us, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me
drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you
cared for me, in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:35-36). Our small acts of
kindness can have a profound impact, not only on others but also on ourselves.
The Gospel reading provides further insight into this theme from Martha’s
perspective. When Jesus visits her home, she feels overwhelmed by the
responsibilities of providing hospitality. Unlike Abraham, who quickly responded
to others’ needs, Martha becomes so focused on her chores that she feels
frustrated and even complains. Like Martha, how easily we can be distracted and
lose sight of what truly matters when caught up in our daily tasks. In her
conversation with Jesus about Mary not helping, Martha shares a common
challenge that we all face: balancing our duties with our spiritual connection.
Dear brothers and sisters, this Sunday’s readings remind us to pay attention
to those special moments when we are called to serve others, especially in
inconvenient times. We often find the divine in life’s most intense and unexpected
situations. The heat, haze, indifference, and distractions are all parts of our faith
journey, each offering us opportunities to serve with a selfless heart. Let us
embrace the call to step out of our comfort zones and discover the true blessings
that come from acts of kindness and love for others.Rev. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor