Everyone needs friends in order to function effectively in society. "A friend loves at all times" (Proverbs 17:17). Jesus was no exception. Frequently, he spent time with special friends in Bethany. "Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus" (John 11:5). Three incidents are included in the Bible concerning this friendly family which was deeply loved by the Son of God. Each one of the family members would present his or her spiritual gift to the Messiah.
A Family Fellowship
A little dinner initiated by Martha is the first time this family of three is introduced. She "received Him into her house" (Luke 10:38). Jesus may have attended this meal alone, but why would Martha be distracted by preparing a meal just for Jesus and her immediate family? It is more probable that the Twelve Disciples were also included. This gathering puts Martha's gift of hospitality to the test. Immediately, she begins to prepare a meal for her guests. No doubt, at the start Mary assisted her sister, but she "also sat at the Lord's feet and heard His word" (Luke 10:39). The food was necessary, but the fellowship was more needful.
As everyone else enjoys the edifying conversation from the Master, Martha seems to be slighted or even mistreated. At least, that is what she thinks. Mary did help some, but the majority of the meal was prepared by Martha. Should she just allow the situation to continue without confrontation? Should she disrupt the discussion in order to defend herself in this dilemma? Torn between two tumultuous thoughts, she decides to articulate her agitation to the Teacher.
Martha expresses her emotions. She emphasizes that she has been left "to serve alone" (Luke 11:40). Martha exhorts the Master to assist her in this matter. Her intentions were worthy, but worry invades her words. Jesus now will soothe her anxious actions with a touch of tender rebuke. "Faithful are the wounds of a friend" (Proverbs 27:6). Many conflicting intentions were invading Martha's motives. "One thing is needful" (Luke 10: 42), the Lord explains to Martha. It is better to sit and listen in order to be satisfied, then to stand and labor without being satisfied.
"Godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6). Mary had learned this valuable lesson. Choosing that "good part" will guarantee generous compensation (Luke 11:42). "Actions speak louder than words." Importance must be placed upon the attitude governing the action not just upon the abundance generated by that action. Yes, God's people should be "given to hospitality" (Romans 12:13; 1 Timothy 3:2) but "without grudging" (1 Peter 4:9).
A Friend's Funeral
The second encounter centers upon a sorrowful episode. Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary lies on his deathbed. Some type of sickness has attacked his well-being. Someone searches for Jesus and summons Him to soothe the sadness of this family, but he chooses to tarry in another town. The disciples assume that He is being careful, for death threats have already been taken on his life.
Four days later, Jesus decides to journey to Bethany. Lazarus is already dead and buried in a tomb. But Jesus' purpose was presented to the disciples plainly before they departed. "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go that I may awaken him out of sleep" (John 11:11).
As news travels in the small town concerning the Master's approach, Martha hurriedly meets Him before He even arrives at the home. If only Jesus had arrived sooner, He surely would have alleviated the agony. Martha even acknowledges that Jesus is the Anointed One, "the Christ" (John 11:27), but avoids any attestation to His affirmation of immediate resurrection. Clearly, the "righteous" shall rise at the Last Judgment, but how will that help the present situation?
|
From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Luke 12:48
