Martha
June 30th, 2011. Filed under: This & That.Martha Loses Hope As She Looks For The Messiah…and A Miracle.
“Oh God Who Sees, take me also. If not together in life, let me join him in death. I don’t want to live without him.” She looked up at the night sky. Had Had the God Who Sees kept her from making a mistake? Would it have worked out the way she dreamed?
Author Diana Wallis Taylor creates a beautiful story set in the New Testament following the life of Martha of Bethany, sister of Mary and Lazarus in Martha (ISBN: 978-0-8007-3465-7, $14.99, 256 pages, June). The busyness of Martha is well-known, identified with, studied, and often misunderstood by people today. Often painted in the colors of reproach, Martha seems to be the poster child for how not to be a follower of Jesus. Taylor provides a well-researched touching portrayal of Martha.
When her mother dies leaving young Martha in charge of the household, her family is dependant upon her to oversee the home. Yet like other girls in her village, Martha longs to be married and begin her own family. Considered a fine cook and weaver, Martha is quick to help others within her community. She experiences the hope of love and love lost, trials, friendship, the death of her father, the overwhelming duty to her family, the discovery of the Messiah, the miracles witnessed at the Temple, and the hospitality she shows to her Lord with dignity and grace. However, when Lazarus becomes ill and Jesus is too late – Martha questions both her faith and the Lord. How could she know that one of the Lord’s greatest miracles was only moments away? Through the life of Martha, Taylor shows readers a new perspective and appreciation for this special woman of the New Testament.
ISLAND BREEZES
God comes through for Martha.
This book gives us a different way to look at Martha instead of seeing her just focused on getting things done.
We are given possible reasons as to why she wasn’t always sitting at the feet of Jesus like her sister, Mary.
This book also brings to light some of what might have been Lazarus’ feelings and actions after his resurrection.
And then there’s the ending. It made me smile. I really like these characters and look forward to more Biblical novels by Ms. Taylor.
***Thank you to Donna Hausler for providing a review copy.***
Diana Wallis Taylor enjoys speaking to women’s groups and teaching writing and poetry workshops. She is the author of Journey to the Well, has published many articles, and contributed stories to several books. Taylor lives in California. Find out more at www.dianawallistaylor.com.
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life.? They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet.
Available June 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.