Welcoming – ‘Martha
welcomed him into her home’.
Vermeer (1632-1675) creates
a beautifully balanced and peaceful scene in which Mary sits thoughtfully at
Jesus’ feet while Martha serves at the table. Vermeer’s use of triangle shapes
and series of threes (three heads, three sets of hands) gives this work its
strength and clarity. Jesus’ rebuke is gentle, shown through the gesture of one
hand, and the turning of his face towards Martha. Both sisters are encompassed
by his presence. Martha responds perhaps with surprise but not anger. As
viewers and readers of the Gospel, we know that their friendship will be tested
soon, as Jesus takes the road to Calvary. But not yet. In this composition, the
three friends are knit closely together by a moment that for most of us recalls
the ordinary experience of family life.
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