Daily Gospel Reflection for July 29, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: John 11:19-27

For many years I’ve relied on St. Martha as a patron saint of working mothers because she is often represented as working hard to provide for others. Like Martha, we also want to be recognized and acknowledged for our hard work, to be invited to step away from the serving and rest at the feet of Jesus.

We are also connected with Martha in today’s Gospel. When Jesus arrives in Bethany, Martha is the one who goes to him. We can imagine her grief of the past four days, having buried a beloved brother. Upon coming face to face with Jesus, Martha displays a profound moment of trust and faith. When Jesus tells her Lazarus will rise, she does not question Him; she simply agrees that her brother will rise in the resurrection on the last day.

Then Jesus tells her:

“ . . . I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Her response is a creed both strong yet simple.

"‘Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.’ ”

Martha, who serves, makes this bold profession that captures the heart of our faith. Whether we are serving others or in the midst of great sorrow, we can seek the intercession of St. Martha to strengthen us in our own foundation of faith. To reach beyond any frustration or irritation and say boldly – as she did, Yes, Lord, I believe.

Ponder:

Place yourself in Martha’s position as she goes out to meet Jesus. In your own grief, how would you respond to His question “Do you believe this?”

Pray:

Gracious God, give us a faith like Martha. That in the trials and grief of this world, we are able to boldly proclaim yes, Lord, I believe.

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Martha, who serves, makes this bold profession that captures the heart of our faith. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Shelly Henley Kelly