At Home with Jesus

Jesus appreciated the atmosphere of the home in Bethany where He was often invited. It was not uncommon for Jesus to seek rest at the home of the sisters Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus. There He was treated as an honored guest, and the family rejoiced in His presence. The Savior left his home in heaven to join the human family. He was never drawn to a home because of its architectural or decorative beauty.

Everywhere He went He searched for those who longed for a Savior. It was His joy to bless such, whether they lived in a hovel or a mansion.

Human magnificence was never a condition for the visit of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. He always enjoyed being in the company of His friends in Bethany. Not that it was a perfect home, but Jesus loved those who loved to be found at His feet. The sisters were women of different temperaments but united by blood ties.

Mary is identified in the Gospels as the person from whom Jesus cast out seven devils. She was considered by many to be a great sinner.

Martha was a helpful woman, hardworking, honest, and decent. But in seeking to be the perfect hostess, she showed an anxious, restless spirit.

Lazarus was responsible for the home and guardian of his sisters. He was a personal friend of Christ. Each, in their own way, needed Jesus.

Mary needed forgiveness and a fresh start.

She also needed to be freed from the dark forces that plagued her, making her life miserable. Martha also needed to be set free—free from the cares and anxieties of life. Jesus wanted her to learn to leave her worries at His feet. Lazarus needed healing and, literally, a new birth. This he received from his Friend. The home, although calm and peaceful, was not a perfect place, but it was there that Jesus found comfort.

Despite the sisters’ challenges, their home remained a place where Jesus felt special and was welcomed to find rest whenever He needed it.