Readings: Exodus 40:16-21,34-38; Psalm 84; Jn 11:17-27 or Luke 10 38-41
Today’s memorial was formerly a memorial only in honor of Saint Martha. However, on February 2, 2021, Pope Francis expanded this memorial to include Martha’s sister and brother, Mary and Lazarus. Thus, today we celebrate these three siblings together. Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus (Jn 11:5). He visits their home Bethany and dines with them. When Jesus corrects Martha, it is with gentleness and familiarity, He said: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things. There is a need for only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Lk 10:41-42). Jesus weeps with Martha and Mary outside the tomb of their brother Lazarus. And he performs the great miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. Jesus said to Martha: “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believed” (Jn 11:40). Martha, Mary and Lazarus were close friends of Jesus. Martha is remembered especially for the story in which she had been preparing a meal for Jesus, while her sister, Mary, sat at Jesus’ feet listening to Him, leaving all the work to Martha. Martha complained to Jesus, urging Him to “Tell her to help me.” Why do we have this memorial honoring all three of these siblings together? When this memorial was established, the Congregation for Divine Worship said, “In the household of Bethany the Lord Jesus experienced the family spirit and friendship of Martha, Mary and Lazarus, and for this reason the Gospel of John states that he loved them.” By honoring these siblings together, we are especially reminded of the importance of remaining close to family and inviting Jesus into our family. Martha, Mary and Lazarus lived together and shared a common life of love. They invited Jesus into their family life, and He accepted their offer. Jesus’ choice to befriend this family is an indication of His desire to unite each family and to befriend each member of every family so as to be the central source of their shared love and unity. Family love is central to our human lives. And though not every family enjoys unity and mutual love, we must never forget that God wants to enter every family just as He did with Martha, Mary and Lazarus.