(story told in Luke 10:38-42; John 11:17-45)
Martha lived in the village of Bethany with her sister Mary and their brother Lazarus. Their home was a special place where Jesus often visited. Martha was known for her hospitality and hard work, always eager to serve others. When Jesus came to their home one day, Martha busied herself with preparing the meal while Mary sat quietly at His feet, listening to His words.
Feeling overwhelmed, Martha asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus gently replied, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better.” His words weren’t meant to scold her but to remind her that spending time with Him was more important than any task. In that moment, Martha began to learn that true service starts with a heart at peace in God’s presence.
Later, Martha faced one of the hardest moments of her life—her brother Lazarus became sick and died. When Jesus arrived four days later, Martha ran to meet Him. Though her heart was broken, her faith shone through as she said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask.”
Jesus assured her, “I am the resurrection and the life,” and then raised Lazarus from the dead. Martha’s trust in Jesus was rewarded with joy and renewed hope.
Martha’s story teaches us that faith is more than activity—it’s relationship. She learned that Jesus cares not only about what we do for Him, but about our hearts resting in His love and truth.