Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus of Bethany, in whose home Our Lord was delighted to be a guest whenever he was in Judea. Martha, the caregiver, would be busy offering hospitality and welcoming Jesus with generosity and faith.

St John (Ch. 11-5) tells us “Jesus loved Martha and her sister and brother.”

It was Martha who was anxious and was busy with much serving. Mary on the other hand, would sit at the feet of Jesus intent on listening to His gracious words and anointing Him with perfume and wiping His feet with her hair.

Jesus was not in Bethany when Lazarus became ill and died. Lazarus had been in a tomb for four days when Jesus returned. Martha, recognising Jesus’ power to heal, said to Him “If you had been here my brother would not have died.” (St John 10-21)

Jesus said “Your brother will rise again.” Martha replied “I know that he will rise again at the Resurrection on the last day.” Jesus then declared “I am the Resurrection. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11:26) Martha responded with an act of Faith, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the One who was to come into this world.”

Jesus shows himself Lord of the living and the dead in raising Lazarus.

Jesus also spent the last few days before His Passion in Bethany where Martha, caring so deeply and true to her character, is naturally busy in extending kindness and hospitality.

St Martha died c.80 of natural causes. She is recognised as the Patron Saint of many including home-makers, cooks and servants.

St Martha’s Feast Day is 29^th July.