Gospel in Art: But the Lord answered: 'Martha, Martha'

Girl Listening, Painted by Johann Georg Meyer von Bremen, 1870 © Alamy

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 8 October 2024
Luke 10:38-42

Jesus came to a village, and a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who sat down at the Lord's feet and listened to him speaking. Now Martha who was distracted with all the serving said, 'Lord, do you not care that my sister is leaving me to do the serving all by myself? Please tell her to help me.' But the Lord answered: 'Martha, Martha,' he said 'you worry and fret about so many things, and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part; it is not to be taken from her.'

Reflection on the painting

A passage from the Book of Ecclesiastes is frequently chosen for funeral Masses, containing the line, "a time to keep silence, and a time to speak." This idea resonates with today's Gospel reading. When Jesus entered the home of Martha and Mary, he was in need of quietness and silence. Mary understood this, choosing to sit quietly at his feet and listen. She offered Jesus the kind of hospitality he sought in that moment-the hospitality of attentive listening. Martha, on the other hand, became overly preoccupied with preparing a meal. Frustrated that Mary wasn't helping, she complained to Jesus, accusing him of not caring enough about her situation. In response, Jesus gently addressed her by name, repeating "Martha, Martha," and suggested that, on this occasion, she could learn from her sister rather than criticise her.

This Gospel reading teaches us all about discerning when to be silent and when to speak. Sometimes, we can overextend ourselves trying to meet a perceived need when what is truly required is a listening ear. Similarly, in our relationship with the Lord, there are moments when we are called to simply be still in his presence. Our tendency towards anxious busyness can cause us to overlook these moments of quiet communion. Like Mary, we too must be open to listen when the Lord invites us to do so.

"Girl Listening at the Door" is a painting by the German artist Meyer von Bremen. The painting depicts a young girl standing quietly at a door, with her ear pressed against it, actively listening to what is happening on the other side. This artwork conveys a sense of curiosity and innocence. Her body language-slightly bent over with an expression of quiet concentration-highlights her intent focus on overhearing something important or even forbidden. The painting subtly invites the viewer to imagine the story unfolding behind the door and why the girl is so keen to listen. This creates an engaging dynamic between the viewer, the girl, and the unseen event. It suggests themes of curiosity, the human desire to know, and perhaps a child's innocence contrasted with the secrets of the adult world.

Just as the girl in our painting leans in with eager anticipation, we too are called to listen attentively to God's voice in our spiritual lives, with curiosity and openness. Her quiet concentration reflects the kind of focus and receptivity we need in prayer, as we seek to discern the deeper meaning of what God is revealing to us, often beyond what is immediately visible.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-10-38-42-2024/