Saint Martha: A Model of Faith, Service, and Contemplation

Fr. Scott A. Haynes

Introduction

 

Saint Martha, whose feast day we celebrate on July 29, is a figure of profound inspiration in Christian tradition. Known for her hospitality and deep faith, Martha's story offers valuable lessons on service, devotion, and the balance between action and contemplation. Her life is a testament to the virtues of diligence and faithfulness, making her an exemplary model for all Christians. Through the lens of Scripture and the insights of saints and scholars, we can delve deeper into the spiritual wisdom embodied by Saint Martha.

 

Martha in the Scriptures

 

Saint Martha's most notable appearances in the Bible are in the Gospels of Luke and John. In Luke 10:38-42, we encounter the well-known story of Martha and her sister Mary. Jesus visits their home, and while Mary sits at His feet, listening to His teaching, Martha is preoccupied with the tasks of hospitality. Frustrated, she asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her. Jesus responds gently, saying, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

 

This passage highlights a fundamental tension between action and contemplation, a theme that has been explored extensively by saints and theologians. Saint Augustine reflects on this dynamic, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual over worldly concerns. He writes, “Martha, who was preparing what was necessary for the refreshment of our Lord, was occupied in much serving; but Mary preferred being fed by the Lord to preparing a meal for Him” (St. Augustine, “Sermon 104”).

 

In John 11, we see another significant moment in Martha's life when her brother Lazarus falls ill and dies. Martha, displaying remarkable faith, goes to meet Jesus and expresses her belief in His power to heal, even after Lazarus's death. Jesus reassures her with the profound declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (John 11:25). Martha's response is a beautiful affirmation of faith: “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world” (John 11:27).

 

Lessons from Saint Martha

 

The Virtue of Service

 

One of the most compelling aspects of Martha's character is her commitment to service. She embodies the spirit of hospitality, welcoming Jesus into her home and attending to His needs. This virtue of service is echoed in the teachings of many saints. Saint Therese of Lisieux, for instance, speaks of the “little way” of doing ordinary things with extraordinary love. She writes, “Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love” (St. Therese of Lisieux, “Story of a Soul”).

 

Martha's diligence in serving Jesus is a reminder that our everyday actions, no matter how mundane, can be acts of devotion when done with love and intention. Her example encourages us to see the presence of Christ in those we serve and to offer our work as a form of worship.

 

The Delicate Balance Between Action and Contemplation

 

The story of Martha and Mary is often interpreted as a call to balance action and contemplation. While Martha is busy with the practical demands of hospitality, Mary chooses to sit at Jesus' feet, absorbing His teachings. Jesus' response to Martha highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment over worldly concerns.

 

The Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, in his reflections on this passage, emphasizes the need for a balanced spiritual life. He writes, “In the rhythm of the Christian life, there is a place for both Martha and Mary, for both action and contemplation. Every soul must at times be both Martha and Mary. To serve well, one must pray well” (Fulton Sheen, “Life of Christ”).

 

Martha's story teaches us that while our duties and responsibilities are important, they should not overshadow our need for spiritual growth and communion with God. It is in this balance that we find true fulfillment and purpose.

 

Faith in the Face of Adversity

 

Martha's encounter with Jesus after the death of her brother Lazarus is a powerful testament to her faith. Despite her grief, she approaches Jesus with confidence in His power and authority. Her declaration of faith, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God,” is a profound affirmation of trust in the face of suffering.

 

Saint Edith Stein, also known as Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, speaks to the strength of faith in difficult times. She writes, “When night comes, and you look back over the day and see how fragmentary everything has been, and how much you planned that has gone undone, and all the reasons you have to be embarrassed and ashamed: just take everything exactly as it is, put it in God’s hands and leave it with Him” (Edith Stein, “Self-Portrait in Letters”).

 

Martha's unwavering faith, even in the midst of loss, encourages us to trust in God's plan and to find solace in His promises. Her example reminds us that faith is not the absence of doubt or fear, but the steadfast trust in God's goodness and power.

 

Theological Reflections

 

The life and actions of Saint Martha have been the subject of theological reflection for centuries. Pope Saint Pius X, in his writings, highlights the importance of both action and contemplation in the Christian life. He states, “It is not a question of preferring one state to the other, but of harmonizing the two, of making them complement each other” (Pope Saint Pius X, “Haerent Animo”).

 

This harmony between action and contemplation is also echoed by Saint Thomas Aquinas in the Summa Theologica, who asserts that the active and contemplative lives are not opposed but are instead complementary paths to holiness. He writes, “The contemplative life is taken to be more excellent than the active life, and this is in accordance with reason. Nevertheless, the active life is not to be altogether shunned, for it is necessary for the perfection of the contemplative life.”

 

Martha's story illustrates this integration of action and contemplation. Her service to Jesus and her deep faith in His divinity demonstrate that both aspects are essential to a holistic and fulfilling spiritual life.

 

Contemporary Reflections

 

In contemporary times, the story of Saint Martha continues to resonate with many who seek to balance the demands of daily life with their spiritual journey. Her example is particularly relevant in a world that often prioritizes productivity and busyness over inner peace and spiritual growth.

 

For those engaged in the active life, there is a need to find moments of stillness and reflection amidst our busy lives. We must carve out time to be with God and listen to Him. Martha's story encourages us to create space for contemplation and prayer, recognizing that our relationship with God is the foundation upon which all our actions should be built. It is in these moments of stillness that we can hear God's voice and receive the strength and guidance needed for our daily tasks.

 

Conclusion

 

Saint Martha, through her life and actions, provides a profound example of faith, service, and the integration of action and contemplation. Her story, as depicted in the Gospels and reflected upon by saints and theologians, offers valuable lessons for Christians seeking to deepen their spiritual lives.

 

Martha's commitment to service reminds us of the importance of performing our duties with love and dedication. Her faith in the face of adversity encourages us to trust in God's plan, even in the midst of suffering. The balance between her active and contemplative life serves as a model for integrating our responsibilities with our need for spiritual nourishment.

 

As we celebrate the feast of Saint Martha on July 29, let us reflect on her example and strive to embody the virtues she exemplifies. In doing so, we honor her legacy and draw closer to the heart of Christ, finding inspiration in her unwavering faith and devotion.