Martha of Bethany, who welcomed and served Jesus in her home; sister of Lazarus.
Life
Saint Martha lived in Bethany near Jerusalem with her sister Mary and her brother Lazarus. Jesus often stayed in their home and loved all three.
In Luke's Gospel, Martha is busy serving Jesus and hears that only one thing is needed. In John's Gospel, after Lazarus has died, she makes a great confession of faith: she believes that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.
The Church remembers her on July 29, and since 2021 Mary and Lazarus are celebrated with her on the same day. Of her later life we have only various traditions and little certain knowledge.
Spirituality
Martha's spirituality joins service and faith. She worked hard to welcome her guest, spoke honestly to Jesus even in her busyness, and in her saddest hour confessed her faith more clearly than anyone. Hers is a life in which working hands and a believing heart go together.
Reflection
Many of us are busy serving our parish. That work is precious, but it matters even more not to forget Jesus, the reason we do it. Could you pause between tasks today and simply tell the Lord what is on your heart?