Jesus' Welcome at Bethany

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Sixteenth Week :  Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:38-42*

*First Reading : Gn 18:1-10a*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 15:2-3, 3-4, 5*

*Second Reading : Col 1:24-28*

*Jesus' Welcome at Bethany*

*1) The Tradition of Welcome*

The tradition of welcome is a deeply biblical and cultural value, especially in the Middle Eastern context. 

In ancient times, hospitality was not just courtesy—it was a sacred duty. 

Welcoming the stranger, guest, or even a wandering teacher was considered an expression of righteousness and respect for God.

When we look at Jesus’ welcome at Bethany, particularly in the home of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, we see this tradition not only honored but elevated to a theological and spiritual level.

*2) Abraham’s welcome of the three visitors (Genesis 18)*

He runs to meet them, provides water, food, and rest. This hospitality leads to divine blessing.

Israel’s law commanded kindness to strangers:

*“You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt”*  (Deuteronomy 10:19).

Jesus' teaching: *“I was a stranger and you welcomed me”* (Matthew 25: 35)

*3) JESUS’ WELCOME AT BETHANY*

*Warm, personal welcome* : Jesus was not treated like a guest but like family.

*Presence over performance* :  Mary chooses to be present with Jesus, while Martha is busy. Both are important, but Jesus affirms the priority of relationship.

*4) Welcoming Jesus Daily*

Bethany reminds us to create space in our lives for Jesus—not just in our church activities, but in our homes, schedules, and hearts.

It means prayerfully listening like Mary, serving with joy like Martha, and believing through trials like Lazarus’ sisters.

*5) Hospitality in Relationships*

True welcome goes beyond formality—it is a gift of presence, attention, and love.

In an age of isolation and digital detachment, opening our hearts and homes in genuine friendship reflects the spirit of Bethany.

*6) Welcoming the Suffering and the Other*

Jesus went to Bethany even when His own suffering was near. 

The home welcomed Him in His vulnerability.

Today, welcoming Christ means welcoming the broken, the stranger, the outcast, the refugee, or even the annoying neighbor.

*7) Balance of Service and Stillness*

Many are like Martha—busy doing “for” Jesus, but missing “being” with Him.

The Bethany story reminds modern Christians to balance activity with spiritual attentiveness

*8) Final Word*

The welcome of Jesus at Bethany is not just a sweet story—it is a model for Christian living. 

It teaches us that:

@) Hospitality is holy.

@) Friendship with Christ is possible.

@) Faith flourishes where Christ is welcomed.

In a divided, distracted world, the Bethany spirit calls us to open our doors and hearts—not just to people, but to Christ Himself.

Let every home become a Bethany—where Christ is known, loved, served, and welcomed.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*