Proper 11 – Year C

Luke 10:38-42

Church of the Atonement

Preached by Aaron Johnson

July 20, 2025

In the name of the loving, liberating, and life-giving God—Father, Son,

and Holy Spirit. Amen.

The story of Martha and Mary that we just heard has been a source of

reflection, debate, and sometimes even struggle, especially around how

women are portrayed and what it means to serve and to reflect as

followers of Jesus. In the past, this story has been used to justify

limiting women’s roles. Yet, when we approach this story through a

different lens, a more inclusive understanding emerges—one that invites

us to see both women as models of discipleship and faith.

Theologian Warren Carter offers a perspective that moves us beyond

simple, black-and-white interpretations. He suggests that Martha may not

be just busying herself with domestic chores or distracted by everyday

worries. Instead, Martha could be functioning as a messenger or

advocate, what we might call a go-between, between God and the people.

Her concern stems from a desire to serve and care for others, ensuring

their spiritual and practical needs are met. Carter’s view sees her as

embodying the work of ministry. She’s not merely distracted; she’s

deeply committed to acting on behalf of others.

Later, in the Gospel of John, Martha appears again after her brother

Lazarus has died. When Jesus arrives, she boldly approaches him and

says, “If you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Her words

echo her love and her faith. Jesus responds by declaring, “I am the

resurrection and the life,” and Martha replies with conviction, “Yes,

Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is coming

into the world.” Her unwavering faith and clear response reveal a woman

who knows whom she trusts and who is committed to understanding and

proclaiming divine truth.In Carter’s interpretation, Mary in this story is not simply passive or

inattentive. Instead, she shatters cultural expectations by boldly

challenging the male-dominated space of theological learning and

reflection. Remember, in the culture of Jesus’ time, women were often

excluded from formal leadership and theological discourse. Mary’s act of

sitting at Jesus’ feet is a form of resistance and empowerment. It’s a

reminder that caring, resting, and reflecting are vital and sometimes

revolutionary forms of ministry. These acts challenge us to recognize

that faithfulness isn’t solely active in deeds but also deeply rooted in

contemplation, presence, and inner reflection.

In John’s account of Lazarus’ death, we see Mary again at Jesus’ feet,

this time overwhelmed with grief. Jesus joins her in her mourning,

sharing her sorrow in a profound act of compassion. It is in this shared

vulnerability that Jesus displays an aspect of true discipleship, being

present in others’ pain, weeping with those who grieve, and responding

with love. Then, demonstrating divine authority, Jesus raises Lazarus

from the dead. Both Martha’s boldness and Mary’s tears serve as powerful

models of authentic faith; faith that operates in action and

vulnerability. They show us that discipleship isn’t only about doing but

also about being.

Both women exemplify what it means to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

Martha is an advocate for her loved ones, unafraid to confront injustice

or speak up for what is needed. Mary reminds us that sometimes ministry

is simply sitting in silence with another, holding space for their pain,

or quietly reflecting on the divine presence. They challenge us to see

that being a disciple involves both active service and contemplative

silence; both are essential paths that lead us closer to Christ.Thinking about these women, I’m reminded of my Great Aunt Gladys. She

was a quiet, humble woman, but her faith shone brightly. She read her

Bible daily, prayed earnestly, and showed her love through simple acts

such as knowing your favorite dish and making it for you when you

visited, or listening to you without judgment. At the end of her life,

she held onto the same faith as Martha, confident that those who believe

in Jesus will not truly die. Her unwavering trust in divine promise was

a testament to her discipleship. I share her story not merely to honor

her memory but because each of us has saints: ordinary people who,

through their lives, exemplify what it means to follow Jesus faithfully

in our lives.

Saints are witnesses that living out the Christian faith is possible,

sometimes in quiet, everyday acts. They remind us that faith isn’t only

about personal salvation but about active love for our neighbors. Caring

for those who are hungry, standing up for the marginalized, or sitting

silently with someone in grief. Saints show us that to follow Jesus is

to embody love in tangible, concrete ways; ways that transform both our

lives and our communities. They demonstrate that faith is not passive

but active, not reserved for extraordinary moments alone, but woven into

our daily actions.

And, as we consider these powerful examples, let us remember that saints

are not only figures from history or distant stories. They are among us.

Every day, we are called to be saints-in-the-making—not perfect, but

committed to embodying love with our whole hearts, with humility and

courage. By doing so, we participate in the ongoing story of God’s love,

pulled together across space and time.

Think of the Marthas and Marys in your life; the ones who serve

tirelessly, the ones who pause and reflect, and the ones who hold space

for grief and hope. Honor both paths as vital and sacred. Reach out to

those in need, advocate for justice, and listen deeply; whether to the

stories of your community or the whispers of your own heart. Every act

of love, no matter how small, ripples outward into the world,

transforming it, one moment at a time.

Go forth, with courage and compassion, confident that the Spirit of God

is with us, empowering us each day to be saints in our own time. Amen.