Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for her devotion to Jesus Christ. She is primarily mentioned in the Gospels of Luke and John, where her actions and interactions with Jesus provide profound insights into her character and faith.

Biblical Accounts

1. Mary at Bethany: Mary first appears in the Gospel of Luke, where she is depicted as sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to His teaching. This account is found in Luke 10:38-42. While her sister Martha is busy with the preparations, Mary chooses to focus on the words of Jesus. When Martha expresses concern about being left to serve alone, Jesus responds, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:41-42). This passage highlights Mary's desire for spiritual nourishment and her prioritization of Jesus' teachings over worldly concerns.

2. The Raising of Lazarus: In John 11, Mary is again mentioned in the context of the death and resurrection of her brother Lazarus. When Jesus arrives in Bethany, Mary, along with Martha, expresses her grief and faith in Jesus. Upon meeting Jesus, Mary falls at His feet and says, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:32). Her statement reflects both her sorrow and her belief in Jesus' power. Jesus, moved by her tears and those of the others, performs the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His authority over life and death.

3. Anointing of Jesus: Mary is also known for anointing Jesus with expensive perfume, an act of worship and preparation for His burial. This event is recorded in John 12:1-8. During a dinner given in Jesus' honor, Mary takes a pint of pure nard, anoints Jesus' feet, and wipes them with her hair. The house is filled with the fragrance of the perfume. When Judas Iscariot criticizes her for not selling the perfume and giving the money to the poor, Jesus defends her, saying, "Leave her alone; she has kept this perfume in preparation for the day of My burial" (John 12:7). This act of devotion signifies Mary's deep love and understanding of Jesus' impending sacrifice.

Character and Significance

Mary's actions throughout the Gospels reveal a woman of deep faith and devotion. Her willingness to sit at Jesus' feet, her expression of faith during her brother's death, and her act of anointing Jesus all demonstrate her profound spiritual insight and love for the Lord. Mary is often seen as a model of discipleship, illustrating the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters and recognizing the significance of Jesus' mission.

Her account also highlights the theme of worship and the recognition of Jesus' divine nature. Mary's actions serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers. Her life encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of Christ and to express their devotion through acts of love and worship.