Exodus 24:3-8; Psalm 49(50):1-2,5-6,14-15; John 11:19-27
Todays liturgy provides us with an alternative. The alternative is the well know story of Martha and Mary, arguing about one doing all the work while the other sits and prays (Luke 10:38-52). The other one is perhaps less well known - it shows that Martha has a deep sense of who Jesus is, and a full trust in his power, for it is Martha who says "I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who was to come into this world."
As a result - Jesus raises their brother Lazarus from his grave.
Note the change in Martha - Jesus has converted her (in the earlier encounter in Luke 10) from a do-er, busy, eyes only on the practical housewife. She is now a more reflective person, and her faith allows the miracle to take place.
We are blessed with frequent encounters with Jesus, in our communion, so we should hope for change in ourselves, and should expect to see impacts in our lives and in the lives of those around us. We know from Martha's life that this can be!