”There is no greater love than to lay down his life for his friends” -
We read in John 15, 13 and that was the life-conviction of Jesus.
From this conviction, Jesus speaks today, come “let us go to Judea.”
Jesus did anticipate more than his disciples, that the Jews wanted to stone him. He knew the expected risk in Judea.
But the friendship, the love for Lazarus and in particular the urge to complete his mission was stronger. He also knew he could not change his end.
Lazarus of Bethany was a good friend of Jesus. His illness and death is at first a personal worry for him then another instance to show the faith in God.
We see a certain repetition of the message that we have heard on the last Sunday too: Disease and death is no cause to complain against God or lose faith in Him, but are ways to glorify God. Such repeated activities of Jesus had only one goal. To male People especially his disciples vigilant on His mission and objectives!
We see faith - at least not on the side of Lazarus, but by his sisters. We can discuss whether their faith in Jesus, really strong or not strong was. Any how they had some trust in Jesus. Now Jesus accepts their trust and acknowledges them with his presence and then through his miracle.
My friends,
we experience every day different situations of trails and sorrows.
Some can separate us from God: some can bring us in doubt.
Today's Gospel is surely a help for us, for such people who can no longer trust in God. It can help us to carry our heavy loads.
We need simply a trust or a deep friendly relationship with Him.
Our faith should be at least “as large” as a small mustard seed.
This can work wonderfully as the sisters of Lazarus enjoyed the fruits of their faith. Jesus surely recognizes that trust.
One sentence in this Gospel is important:
”Take away the stone” that is the only command of Jesus.
Yes, there are many stones in front of our relationship with God.
These hinder our faith.
Are we ready to discard them,
and then we come in contact with God.
Then we can listen His words.
Then we can come to His light and life.
”Lazarus miracle” has to happen in all people, in me and in you.
It is simply the friendly and lively meeting of God's love and faith.
Such encounters of God will lead us to life.
If we confess Jesus as our guardian and guide and friend,
then we say that we are immortal ... we are strong, we got the power.
Let us experience God closer and friendlier in this time of Lent.
God bless us all. Amen!
--
Fr Thomas Kalathil
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