Visiting Friends

Jesus in the House of Martha and Mary

By American artist Eileen Kennedy

Dear Friends,

Some Sunday readings are so familiar that we can whisper the words along with the reader. This Sunday’s gospel reading (Luke 10:38-42) is one of those familiar stories.

• A woman whose name was Martha welcomed Him….
• Mary sat beside the Lord, at His feet, listening to Him.
• Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.
• Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.

This story carries such strong feelings. Each time I hear or read it, I am invited to a different perspective, pulled toward one character or the other. I’ve found many words written about this trinity of friends, but in this post I share a painting for your own reflection.

In her painting, North American artist Eileen Kennedy (eileen-kennedy.com) blocks any easy interpretation. Martha moves in on Mary and Jesus, wielding a noisy vacuum cleaner. She looms angrily over Mary. (Has Martha already bumped into Mary’s chair?) Mary ignores Martha, and we suspect that this isn’t the first time she’s done so. Jesus the visitor sits partly hidden by a screen and pretty flowers. A cat settles serenely next to Mary.

You are invited this week to this scene in this room. Here are some questions for reflection.

1. Is there a figure with whom you identify most? Are you an uncomfortable visitor? A bemused observer? An enraptured listener? An irritated outsider? An unappreciated worker?
   
   
2. Is the room your faith community? Your family? Your nation? Your own divided heart?
   
   
3. Who is an outsider? Who is the one who welcomes? Who prepares space for three friends?

Hoping for welcoming spaces for all,

Susan Schantz SSJ