01/06/2025
The gospel of Mary of Bethany, in Luke and John. To picture out a deeply faithful woman who had a special relationship with Jesus.
🌿 1. Mary Chooses to Sit at Jesus’ Feet (Luke 10:38–42)
Jesus visits the home of Mary, Martha, and their brother Lazarus in the village of Bethany, near Jerusalem. While Martha rushes around preparing food and handling hospitality, Mary does something unusual for a woman in that time—she sits at Jesus’ feet, listening intently to his teaching.
Martha, frustrated, asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus gently responds:
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” — Luke 10:41–42
This moment highlights Mary’s spiritual hunger and her deep contemplative devotion, contrasting with Martha’s busyness.
💧 2. The Death of Lazarus and Jesus’ Compassion (John 11:1–44)
When Lazarus becomes gravely ill, Mary and Martha send for Jesus. But He delays, and by the time He arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has been dead for four days.
Martha goes out to meet Jesus first, expressing faith that he could have saved Lazarus. Then Mary comes and falls at his feet, saying:
“Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” — John 11:32
Moved by her sorrow and the mourning of others, Jesus weeps a rare moment showing his deep empathy (John 11:35). Then, he raises Lazarus from the dead, a powerful sign of his divine authority and love.
🌺 3. Mary Anoints Jesus with Perfume - (John 12:1–8)
Six days before the Passover (just before Jesus’ crucifixion), Jesus returns to Bethany and dines with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. In a striking and symbolic act, Mary takes a pint of expensive perfume (nard), pours it on Jesus’ feet, and wipes them with her hair.
Judas Iscariot criticizes her for wasting money, but Jesus defends her:
“Leave her alone. It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.”
— John 12:7
In Her act is remembered as one of deep worship and foresight, showing her spiritual understanding of what Jesus was about to face.
Mary of Bethany
📍Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Parish
Calumpang Molo, Iloilo City
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