Scripture:

On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home. “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” (John 11 17-22)

Reflection:

The responses of the two sisters illustrate how we all have our own unique way of dealing with grief and loss. Martha was outspoken and impetuous. Tired of waiting for Jesus to act in the way she believed he could, she went out to meet him and told him what was on her mind. Mary stayed at home and sought consolation for her loss. When Jesus arrived, she characteristically knelt at his feet, weeping. In our life we may sometimes be like Martha, pouring out all our emotions, positive and negative. At other times we may be like Mary, quieter and more resigned. The wonderful news is that, either way, Jesus understands us and accepts us as we are. We don’t need to cloak our feelings before him.

Lyn Hayes