Dear Parishioners,
Today we celebrate the Memorial of Martha, a friend of Jesus. Martha, together with her sister, Mary, and her brother Lazarus, were close friends of Jesus. The Scriptures speak of Jesus weeping at the death of his friend, Lazarus; yet, calls him back to life from the stench of the tomb.
The home of these figures in scripture was a comfortable place for Jesus to drop in for a respite from the demands of his ministry and from the noise of the world. This was a home with real people and Jesus felt comfortable there.
Martha, whom we remember today, was capable in managing a home and throwing together a meal for our Lord. She was also honest (and crabby) enough to express her opinion. She had faith in Jesus, her Messiah, and yet was at ease with His presence in her home. She was “busy about many things” and worried about every aspect of hospitality. Of course, this is transposed by her sister Mary who may give us a model of contemplative listening, acknowledging her for taking the “better part.” I think both are necessary in the ministry of the Church.
Saint Martha, pray for us and the Church, during these days of challenge!
Be assured of our prayers for you each day as we continue our journey together and apart.
Blessings,
Fr. Mark
