Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus, close friends of Jesus who lived in Bethany just a few miles outside of Jerusalem. It is probable that since Jesus had no siblings, no home of his own that he was frequently guest at their home. In one gospel account Martha is the model of hospitality; yet she is politely chastised for taking more time for earthly details than sitting down and just being present.

In another gospel, it is Martha who this time chastises Jesus for not being present when she first called at the outset of her brother's illness. Jesus however uses the opportunity of this disappointment and outrage to bring out of her heart a confession of faith which he acknowledges with compassion by raising Lazarus from the dead.

Very much like the covenant which we spoke about yesterday. Sometimes people come to think that God of the Old Testament is a God of judgment and wrath; while the God revealed by Jesus is one of compassion and mercy. It would almost suggest that perhaps God is schizophrenic or that God is inconsistent and able to change his mind.

The scriptures reveal throughout that the heart of God is one of mercy and love; but there are times again as most parents know when the best love--perhaps the only love--is tough love. And in both gospel accounts Jesus demonstrates in his relationship with Martha whether testing her faith, or her grandiose desire to please.

In the first reading today we hear: The Lord, the Lord is a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, rich in kindness and fidelity. In the responsorial psalm the word fear does not denote anxiety but a spirit of humble reverence, again as suggested by Jesus to Martha.