Pastor's Reflection - March 22, 2026

Simple Faith

As we prepare to enter Holy Week, we are presented with the beautiful story of the raising of Lazarus. Jesus shows his deep empathy in the shortest sentence in many English Bibles: “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). What a powerful reminder that Jesus entered our humanity so that we might share in his divinity.

Today’s Gospel invites us to sit beside Martha as she meets Jesus in the shadow of grief. While her brother Lazarus lies dead, Martha speaks with honesty and courage. She confesses her belief that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and she names both her hope and her doubt. In that moment, her faith is not a calm answer but a faithful reaching out, a trust that speaks even amid confusion and pain.

Martha teaches us that faith can be active and earnest. She moves beyond questions to address Jesus directly, inviting him into her sorrow and into the place of loss. Her words remind us that faith does not require perfect certainty before we call on the Lord. Rather, faith often begins with a simple naming of Christ and a willingness to bring our whole life to him.

This Martha is different from the woman in Luke 10:38–42, who was so preoccupied with serving that she chided Mary for staying at Jesus’ feet. That contrast shows the ongoing struggle to find balance in life and not to judge others who have different duties and responsibilities. While Mary sat with sorrow, Martha ran to meet Jesus and made a beautiful profession of faith.

As we approach Holy Week, let Martha’s example encourage you to bring your doubts, your grief, and your hopes to Jesus. Faith grows when we keep speaking, keep listening, and keep trusting that the One who raises Lazarus is present to raise and renew our own hearts.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for our Holy Week celebrations. (The schedule has been posted in the bulletin and on our parish websites for the past several weeks.)  We do not simply show up for Easter; we journey with Jesus through each powerful night of the Triduum. These liturgies offer special graces and form the high point of our liturgical year.

In Christ,

Fr. James Northrop, Pastor