Today’s gospel offers two options for the memorial of sibling-saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, who were three of Jesus’ closest friends, outside of his immediate apostles.

Both stories are very memorable to all Christians. The first involves Jesus bringing Lazarus back from the dead at Martha’s prodding. The second, a favorite of many Christians, involves the interplay between Jesus and the two sisters at a dinner at Martha’s or the family’s home, with people often reflecting on whether they are more like Mary or more like Martha. Not much else is known about Lazarus from the gospels, although there are differing accounts that have been handed down as to what became of him later in life.

In 2021, the Church specifically elevated the three siblings when Pope Francis “… considering the important evangelical witness they offered in welcoming the Lord Jesus into their home, in listening to him attentively, in believing that he is the resurrection and the life … decreed that July 29 be designated in the General Roman Calendar as the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus.”

Like many others, I like to think about the three siblings and the wonderful relationship they must have had with Jesus. I picture Jesus going to their home on many occasions, including the ones mentioned today of course. And in these other visits that are not mentioned, I can imagine Jesus relaxing with them, joking with them and feeling a freedom he didn’t have when he was teaching, preaching, instructing and leading his followers. He must have felt extremely comfortable with them. And he must have cared deeply for them because he wept at the reality of what his friend Lazarus had experienced in dying, and he chose to do such an important (and risky for his safety) miracle in bringing Lazarus back from the dead. 

I like to meditate on this comfortableness Jesus, Martha, Mary and Lazarus had with each other. In the serving story, he chided Martha so naturally, so warmly, without humiliating her. In the account about Lazarus, Martha feels equally comfortable chiding Jesus for not coming sooner, for not saving her brother from dying. Jesus does not take offense at her rebuke and instead gives her an opportunity to express her faith in him and who he is. The three siblings obviously mean very much to him, as he does to them.

I take great comfort in their relationship because I think this is what Jesus wants from us. It is though he is saying to us as he says to them: Draw near. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind. Express your frustrations to me. You can say anything to me and I will understand. You are loved. First and foremost, let’s be friends.