In John 11, we find the familiar and poignant story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It's a narrative rich with theological depth and human emotion, offering profound insights into faith, grief, and the character of Jesus. Among the three siblings, Martha often receives a less-than-flattering portrayal, sometimes being seen as overly practical, anxious, or even critical. However, a deeper look reveals her as a woman of remarkable faith, a true example for us today.
Martha's Faith in the Face of Despair
When Lazarus, their beloved brother, falls ill, Martha and Mary send for Jesus. But Jesus delays, and Lazarus dies. The pain and confusion Martha must have felt are almost unimaginable. Yet, when Jesus finally arrives, Martha's immediate action speaks volumes: she goes out to meet Him, while Mary remains in the house.
Her first words to Jesus are filled with the ache of what could have been: "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). This isn't a rebuke; it's a statement of profound belief in Jesus' power. She knew He could have prevented it.
A Declaration of Unwavering Hope
What follows is one of the most powerful declarations of faith in all of Scripture. Jesus says to her, "Your brother will rise again." And Martha, without hesitation, responds, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day" (John 11:23-24). She understood the theological truth of the resurrection.
But Jesus pushes her further, revealing a deeper truth: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26).
Martha's answer is a resounding affirmation that echoes through the ages: "Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world" (John 11:27). This is not just intellectual assent; it's a heartfelt confession of faith, a recognition of Jesus' divine identity and mission. She declares her belief in Him as the Messiah, the one who brings life even in the face of death.
A Model for Us Today
Martha, in her raw grief and pain, demonstrates a faith that is both honest and unwavering. She brings her questions and her sorrow to Jesus, but she also holds firmly to her conviction in who He is. Her example teaches us several vital lessons:
* Bring your honest self to Jesus: Martha didn't hide her disappointment or her pain. She laid it all before the Lord. We, too, can come to Jesus with our doubts, fears, and grief, knowing He understands.
* Confess His Lordship even in despair: In her deepest moment of sorrow, Martha declared Jesus to be the Christ, the Son of God. This reminds us that true faith shines brightest when circumstances are darkest.
* Trust in His promises, even if you don't understand the timing: Martha believed in the future resurrection, and then she witnessed Jesus' immediate power over death. We may not always understand God's timing, but we can trust in His ultimate plan and His power.
Martha's story is a powerful reminder that faith isn't about having all the answers or being perfectly composed. It's about confidently declaring, "I believe," even when our hearts are breaking. May we, like Martha, always cling to the truth that Jesus is the resurrection and the life.
What aspects of Martha's faith resonate most with you in your own life?