Martha, a woman of action

 My name is Martha, although many people get my sister Mary and I mixed up, often calling one the other’s name, we are such strong individuals it’s not hard to tell us apart. She and I have had a pretty difficult couple of weeks, and it has affected us in different ways. We live with our brother Lazarus, and he has been quite sick with fever. 

Mary has a more spiritual side, she is reserved and although she helped with Lazarus’ care, she spent a lot of time just holding his hand and praying.  I prayed too but being busy makes me feel more in control and safer, so I busied myself with his physical care and needs. 

About a week ago it looked as if Lazarus would pass from this earth so, Mary and I agreed it was time to send for Jesus. We heard from a traveler who ran into him that he is coming. I hope he will make it in time; Jesus has a way of getting distracted by people; true they do need him, and he is not one to waste time, but right now Lazarus needs him and if Jesus hears how sick he is, I am sure he will hurry things along.  If I just keep myself busy I won’t  have to think about what could happen if Jesus doesn’t make it. 

I find my mind rushing with remembrances of Jesus and Lazarus and how they would carry on when Jesus stayed with us.  I didn’t mind the extra work, because in the end, it made Lazarus so happy, but I do admit to resenting the amount of time Mary spent listening to Jesus while I did all the work.  Lazarus was oblivious to the inequality and when I tried to get Jesus on my side, he took Mary’s, saying she had chosen the better.   What I wouldn’t give now to see Lazarus, Jesus and my sister musing over the law, talking strategy for building Jesus’ ministry.  

I hope he makes it in time.  Please God, hear my sister Mary’s prayer for Lazarus, she is so spiritual, I know you will hear her.