How many of us are caught up in a frenzy of activities? Do our activities make a difference to the lives of others?

In the Gospel reading, we find Mary in the midst of the busyness of Martha, 'sitting at the Lord's feet and listening to what He was saying' v39). Jesus calls this, 'the only thing needed . . . the better part' (v42).

Compare this incident with St Paul's life. Before his conversion to Christianity he led a busy life. He was a man going places with letters of authority to imprison Christians. But when God called him, he went 'at once to Arabia' (v17) . . . and all became silence.

Today, can we let go of our activities? Can we move on towards silence? Can we let our lives count as Mary's? When she anointed the Lord with perfume Jesus said to her, "She has done a beautiful thing to me . . . what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Mt. 14:6,9). And of St Paul, we know his life's work and his undefeatable spirit.

Where does it all come from? How can our life become a gift and a fragrance to the people around us? Perhaps it comes from 'sitting at Jesus' feet and listening to Him' and entering deeply into silence.