Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross in Green Bay, WI
Reflection for July 20, 2025

Reflection for July 20, 2025

More than a meal

Scripture reminds us that even in the kitchen, we are called to be present — to each other and to Christ

by Sister Carolyn Zahringer

Have you ever said or thought, “It is a mystery,” when you didn’t initially understand something?

I found myself chalking up several things from this weekend’s readings to “mystery” expressions. I grew up on a farm. I’ve made bread. I know from experience that making bread or rolls is not something done quickly. Nor is preparing meat for a meal, much less preparing meat from hoof to table as a quick task. Abraham’s directives to Sarah and the hired hand to prepare these items “quickly” just isn’t realistic in my experience. Is there possibly something deeper hinted at here?

Paul’s writing to the Colossians implies that a mystery points out that which is hidden can only be made known if God reveals it. God does reveal mysteries in our life, if and when we are open to them.

The Gospel presents a debate about who has chosen the better part. Meals take time. Typically, the planning and major preparations happen before the guest arrives. Maybe Martha and Mary needed an easier meal plan! Being present to the guest is more important than an extravagant menu. Jesus’ presence always turns a simple meal into a “banquet”.

Reflection questions:

How can we be more attuned to God’s invitation to be open to the mysteries of life?

What can we do this coming week to live more awake to mystery?

 

 

8 Comments

Sister Agnes Fischer
07/18/2025 9:29 am

Way to go, Carrie. We'll be hosting the neighbors this week. May we be hostesses that Jesus would be happy to accompany.

SR ROSE JOCHMANN
07/18/2025 9:49 am

Thank you for reminding us of the many mysteries in life! There are so many throughout each day.

Bobbie Reinhart
07/18/2025 11:37 am

MAYBE Abraham could have helped Sarah and the hired hand get the meal out quickly???

Keith
07/18/2025 11:45 am

Interesting question: Is the answer to the mysteries we all have in life, directly or indirectly in-front of us daily? if only we would look more?....Thank you Sister Carolyn for the inspiring reflection.

Mary K Maxson
07/18/2025 12:23 pm

Thanks so much for your insightful comments. We also wondered if the encounter in the desert was for several days and maybe "quickly" was really "as fast as possible"... demonstrating Abraham's enthusiastic welcome.

Joanne Goessl
07/18/2025 2:34 pm

Great insight, Carrie! I know I have often focused on the banquet and slipped up on the meal. I want your reflection to stay with me!

Linda
07/21/2025 3:02 pm

And one has to wonder if the "meal" isn't more than food? At least, more than physical food.

(Thanks for questioning the "timing" of Abraham's preparation for his big feast. I, too, have asked those same questions, and am grateful we have learned not to take "everything" literally in Scripture.)

David F Daniels
07/26/2025 5:20 pm

Thanks for your thoughtful words! They showed the wisdom of an experienced cook when commenting on the words of Scripture. Well done!

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