Lord, if you had been here - September 13, 2024

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 40, 54; PM Psalm 51; Job 29:1,31:24-40; Acts 15:12-21; John 11:30-44  

Daily Reflection:

This week I went to the dermatologist for a routine skin check. Before going into the usual exam room, the technician escorted me to the right and imaged one side of my face. The images produced after three bright flashes of light showed ratings about different aspects of my skin – lines, redness, pores, UV damage, bacteria, etc. With each, she had suggestions about treatments to make improvements or adjustments.

What I found much more interesting than a banquet of skin care options was that one image in the lineup looked just like my sister Virginia. The eye lashes. The bridge of the nose. I could not believe I was looking at a photo of myself, for it looked so much like her. People who see my sisters with me will often say that the youngest and I resemble one another. Virginia’s striking red hair sets her apart visually, though there are clear familial likenesses we share.

Today, I am struck by the way that sisters Mary and Martha connect with Jesus in John’s gospel story of the raising of Lazarus (John 11). Independently of one another, they say the exact same words to Jesus: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” The sisters share the same longing and grief. They share faith in God. They have regret and sadness.

The distinctions of Martha and Mary are quite clear, too. Martha meets Jesus alone as he comes toward the house. They stand outside and speak of Lazarus’ death. Martha articulates her faith and her knowledge of Jesus’ power, “I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” She boldly holds to hope for the resurrection, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.” Mary comes out to see Jesus, followed by other mourners. "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." That is all she says. Then, Mary kneels at his feet and weeps. Her emotion opens the way for others’ emotions to pour out. It is here that Jesus begins to weep, too.

Each sister has a distinct and important role to play in the way we live into faith in Jesus. Martha puts voice to her faith. Mary puts feeling to her faith. Together, the picture is more complete. Let us listen for the ways the Holy Spirit is calling us to pay attention to the ways we draw near with our whole selves to Jesus this day.

May God bless and nourish you,

Katherine+

Reflection and Challenge

In John's gospel story, Martha leads with words. Mary leads with feelings. Where do you most identify? What can each woman teach you today about drawing near to Jesus? Pray that God opens your eyes to spaces of growth and understanding today!