By Vimal Wilbert, CSC –
Readings: Ex 32:15-24, 30-34; Jn 11:19- 27
Today the Church celebrates the memorial of St Martha who in her lifespan on earth believed in the person of Jesus Christ and dedicated her life in service.
In today’s gospel reading we see about Martha’s belief in the life-giving power of Jesus Christ. The gospel passage expresses the amount of trust Martha had in Jesus. When Martha heard about the coming of Jesus, she ran out and expressed her belief in him by saying “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” This is the invitation that you and I receive to place our trust and faith in the person of Jesus Christ.
The gospel reading calls us to introspect our faith and trust in the person of Jesus Christ. It is a call to examine ourselves by meditating upon the life of Martha and her belief in the person of Jesus as she expresses “You are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world”. Martha’s expression of faith in Jesus reveals her understanding in the salvific plan of God. As we remember her today and meditate upon her faith in Jesus, let us also pray that we too may be strengthened in our faith in Jesus and that we too may proclaim our faith in him and live a life worthy of his teachings.