Jer. 26:1-9, Ps. 69:5,8-10,14, John 11:19-27
“Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.” (John 11:27)
Truth is bitter; so bitter that many may not like to accept it. Some may even try to fight it by looking for a way to destroy the mouth that tells the truth. On the other hand, if we are wise enough to face the truth and accept it, it becomes medicine for us, washing out our bad sides and bringing out the very best from us.
In today’s first reading, God said to Jeremiah: “Stand in the court of the Lord's house and speak to all the cities of Judah which come to worship in the house of the Lord all the words that I command you to speak to them; do not hold back a word. It may be they will listen, and everyone turn from his evil way, that I may repent of the evil which I intend to do to them because of their evil doings.” (Jeremiah 26:2-3)
Truth is bitter but failing to accept it produces bitter consequences. Jeremiah had to warn the people lest they set themselves up for destruction. Do you know what God has been planning for you? Why not repent now and begin to walk in the light again?
Truth is bitter, but it can also be painful. Mary and Martha could not understand how Jesus could be so friendly with the family yet when He received news that Lazarus was very sick, He failed to show up. Jesus didn’t even need to come; he could cure Lazarus from a distance as he cured the Centurion’s servant. But Jesus did nothing.
In pain and disappointment, Mary and Martha buried Lazarus. It is not easy to speak of faith when we are faced with serious challenges; when prayers are not answered or when tragedies strike. When Mary and Martha were still mending their heart-aches, Jesus showed up. He asked Martha this question: “Do you believe?” Now imagine yourself in Martha’s shoes. what would your response be?
On this day that we celebrate the feast of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, we are called to be inspired by Martha’s exemplary faith which was obviously unshaken by the death of her brother Lazarus. She replied: “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.” Jesus was so impressed by her statement of faith that He brought Lazarus back to life. We pray that we may have faith large enough to make God move mountains on our behalf.
Let us pray: Almighty ever-living God, strengthen my faith, love, and devotion to you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saints Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Bible Study: Jer. 26:1-9, Ps. 69:5,8-10,14, John 11:19-27).
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu