In this gospel, Mary, Martha, Jesus and their friends were celebrating the fact that Lazarus came back to life from the dead. Lazarus was also at the party. Since his house in Bethany was only two miles from Jerusalem, it was very likely that Jesus went there often to rest and enjoy the company of His friends.
My reflection on this party is that each person did what he or she did best. Martha cooked. Lazarus was the quiet one and was not bothered by the noise. Mary was romantic and kissed the feet of the Lord and nobody minded her. In other words, everybody acted naturally in the presence of the Lord. The only exception was Judas. He was good at counting money, but could not accept himself and was, therefore, jealous of the others and their talents.
During this season of Lent, it is good to ask ourselves if we are content in the way we worship the Lord or do we get envious of other people’s methods of worship. The Lord accepts an act of worship according to one’s natural tendencies because each person is unique and has his own virtues.
If someone talks to the Lord, let him do so and keep your silence for we are all different. You do not have to be somebody else in front of the Lord. Just be yourself. In being ourselves in His presence, we truly become pleasing sacrifices.
Let us ask the Lord for the grace to accept ourselves as we uniquely are. Jealousy and envy lead us nowhere. Be happy with yourself and offer yourself as you are to God.
BE YOURSELF
Lk 10:38-42
Jesus In My Heart
