The family that Jesus loved: Martha, Mary, and Lazarus in the Gospels
July 29, 2024 - Monday; Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus
Luke 10:38-42
Three passages in the Gospels feature the New Testament Saints which memorial the Church celebrates today: Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. In the Gospel of Luke 10:38-42, Martha and Mary welcome Jesus under their roof. Martha served and Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to him. Lazarus is not mentioned in Luke’s account. In the Gospel of John, all three characters come onto the stage in an incredible story of raising Lazarus from the grave (see John 11:1-44). Then, in the following chapter, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet and Lazarus reclines with Jesus at the table during a meal that celebrates the victory of life over death (see John 12:1-11).
In all these three stories, Lazarus does not say a word, but he proclaims the power of the Gospel by being alive. In the story recorded by Saint Luke, the one who does not say anything is Mary; she just sits and listens to what Jesus has to say. The ancient commentators on that passage saw here an invitation to a life of contemplation and prayer that is valued higher than service. Philosophers find here a confirmation of a principle that who we are is more relevant than what we do. Mary also does not say anything in the Gospel of John, chapter 12. She anoints Jesus for the day of Jesus’ burial and that action speaks louder than any words would ever do.
The one that talks most in those passages of the Gospel is Martha. She demands from Jesus to tell Mary to help her; she somehow blames Jesus for the death of her brother; she tries to prevent Jesus from proceeding with opening the tomb. At the same time, Martha exhibits faith in Jesus, accepts his corrections, and serves him. In a certain sense, most of us can see ourselves in her. She represents us, who are also passionate about serving Christ and demanding others to do the same, complaining when things are tough but repenting when told that we got it wrong.
The Gospel of John informs us that “Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus” (John 11:5). What made Jesus love this family, in particular, is difficult to say. Perhaps, they offered Jesus something that we all long for - a true friendship and a place of rest from work. They also believed in him to be the Jewish Messiah, the One who was supposed to come into this world (see John 11:27). But the statement about Jesus’ love for that family indicates that Jesus’ love is personal. His unconditional love extends to you and me and every person in the world.
The stories of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus in the Gospels offer valuable lessons on faith, prayer, and the personal love of Jesus. Martha's outspokenness reminds us of our human tendencies, while Mary's actions speak louder than words. Through them, we learn the power of silence, authentic actions, and the assurance of Jesus' unwavering love. Let us draw inspiration from their examples, seeking to deepen our connection with Jesus and grow in faith, knowing that Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus intercede for us on our journey of discipleship.