Remembering Martha, Mary and Lazarus
Recent studies have revealed that Mary, the sister of Martha, and Mary Magdalene are more than likely two distinct people. We have a separate day on which we remember Mary Magdalene. So Pope Francis decided, early this year, to dedicate this day, July 29, to Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus. Rather than just remembering St Martha, as we did in the past, Francis wants us to remember her as part of a family of siblings, two sisters and a brother. This is so appropriate because Jesus was especially close to this family. He would visit them on occasions, have meals with them, talk to them about his mission. Now today, the gospel text (John 11:19-27) tells us of Jesus returning to Bethany after he hears that Lazarus had died. As he approaches the house, Martha comes out to meet him. The initial conversation between Jesus and Martha reveals a sense of testiness, even annoyance, as Martha blurts out, “Where have you been? You weren’t here when we needed you.” When Jesus tests Martha’s faith and she replies, “Yes, I know he will rise on the last day.” Then Jesus declares quite publicly, “I am the resurrection and the life. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies he will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” Again, he faces Martha and challenges her, “Do you believe this?” And Martha makes a powerful declaration of faith in Jesus, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who was to come into the world.” The story goes on to include the emotional meeting with Mary. The two sisters then take Jesus to the tomb of Lazarus and there Jesus raises Lazarus to life. Today’s memorial reminds us that Jesus encounters people through and within their families. It also stresses the powerful bond between siblings. It challenges each one of us to deepen our faith and state it out loud. It reveals Jesus’ deep emotional ties with his followers who are his family. So, as we remember Martha, Mary and Lazarus, let us pray for our families, for our brothers and sisters, pray for those who have died, and pray for a deepening of faith.
Tom Rouse