The gospel passages we encounter during Holy Week are particularly fruitful sources for our prayer. For example, today's gospel passage tells us that six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany (Jn 12:1). This was the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. It would appear that this was a place that Jesus and his disciples knew well. They would have travelled to and from Jerusalem on other occasions, and it is safe to assume that they would have stopped at this home to visit with their friends whenever they did.
On this occasion, we hear that Martha served dinner, Lazarus joined them at table and Mary anointed the feet of Jesus (cf Jn 12:2-3). Each in his or her own way wanted Jesus and his disciples to know that they were welcome. Serving food to guests, anointing their dried out and tired feet, and taking the time to engage them in conversation were all gestures of welcome, each of which would have been welcomed by the guests who had arrived at their door.
How do we welcome guests who come to our doors? Are we attentive to their needs? Do we seek to afford them the gift of hospitality and refreshment? On the contrary, the modern-day obsession with individualism and technology provides a fertile ground for serious concern about how the traditional roles of hospitality and welcome are at risk. If we are serious about wanting to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to find ways to do as Martha, Mary and Lazarus did - to welcome him whenever he may knock at our door.
Have a great day.
No comments:
Post a Comment