Chapter 31—Resurrection of Lazarus
Jesus had often found the rest that his weary human nature required
at the house of Lazarus, in Bethany. His first visit there was when he
and his disciples were weary from a toilsome journey on foot from
Jericho to Jerusalem. They tarried as guests at the quiet home of
Lazarus, and were ministered unto by his sisters, Martha and Mary.
Notwithstanding the fatigue of Jesus, he continued the instruction
which he had been giving his disciples on the road, in reference to the
qualifications necessary to fit men for the kingdom of Heaven. The
peace of Christ rested upon the home of the brother and sisters. Martha
had been all anxiety to provide for the comfort of her guests, but Mary
was charmed by the words of Jesus to his disciples, and, seeing a
golden opportunity to become better acquainted with the doctrines of
Christ, quietly entered the room where he was sitting, and, taking her
place at the feet of Jesus, drank in eagerly every word that fell from
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his lips.
The energetic Martha was meanwhile making ample preparations
for the entertainment of her guests, and missed her sister’s help. Finally
she discovered that Mary was sitting at the feet of Jesus, and listening
with rapt attention to what he was saying. Martha, wearied with
many cares, was so vexed to see her sister calmly listening thus, that
she forgot the courtesy due to her guests, and openly complained of
Mary’s idleness, and appealed to Jesus that he would not permit all the
domestic duties to fall upon one.
Jesus answered these complaints with mild and patient words:
“Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things;
but one thing is needful, and Mary hath chosen that good part, which
shall not be taken away from her.” That which Jesus indicated that
Martha needed, was a calm, devotional spirit, a deeper anxiety to learn
more concerning the future immortal life, and the graces necessary
to spiritual advancement. She needed less anxiety for earthly things,
which pass away, and more for heavenly things, which affect the eternal
welfare of the soul. It is necessary to faithfully perform the duties of
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