Martha and Mary, sisters. lived in Bethany near Jerusalem (John 11:1). The Bible identifies Mary of Bethany (NOT Mary Magdalene) as the prostitute from Galilee who washed his feet with her tears, and died them with her hair at the beginning of his ministry.

In (Luke 10:38-42), we find Mary's life has been transformed and Jesus’ accepted the hospitality of the sisters. Martha is a totally committed hostess and upset that Mary won't help with that work but Mary is a now described as a committed disciple sitting and learning at the feet of a Rabbi, a position ususally reserved for men. Jesus calms Martha, while praising Mary. The role of women (Luke 8:3); shall not be overlooked.

Later when their brother Lazarus becomes deathly ill, the sisters in faith, send to Jesus for help, but by the time he arrives Lazarus is dead. So Jesus raises Lazarus from death, after 4 days in the grave (John 11:1-44).

At the end of Jesus ministry in preparation for his coming death, Mary once more annoints Jesus (John 12:1-8; cf Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9). There is no further reference to the two women in the Bible.

Medieval tradition holds a legend of the evangelisation of Provence by Mary, Martha and Lazarus.

Are you a Martha - always worried, busy and stressed, trying to do too much for everyone, or are you a Mary willing to sit at the feet of the master and learn? Both roles have value.