This Sunday’s Gospel, the Raising of Jesus’ cousin Lazarus, is one upon which Jesus builds the greatest prophetic message of His life’s work and mission. The conversation with Martha about the Resurrection is not just a story or a belief that belongs to others. Jesus IS THE RESURRECTION; and He engages Martha with this belief.
This Lenten Gospel is also the climax of the three passages from St. John that build the plot to the crucifixion and death of Jesus, followed by the glorious reality of Easter. The three stories of the Samaritan Woman, the Blind Man and the Raising of Lazarus also parallel the three scrutinies of the RCIA Process each year, as adults prepare for the three Sacrament of Initiation at the great Easter Vigil. Although our “elect” follow a slightly different path to their Sacraments this year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, they will celebrate their Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist with special joy at a time God indeed has in mind for them.
As Lazarus is unbound from the chains of death and walks from the tomb at Jesus’ command, we might ask ourselves from what do we need to be unbound this Lenten Season? From what habits, diseases, sins, addictions, anxieties, etc… do we need to ask Our Lord to free us? Reflect on the meaning of “being unbound” in your life for a few minutes this Sunday of Lent or during the remaining days of this sacred season. Ask Jesus, the Savior, the Crucified One, to take away the wrappings, which bind you! Let us all walk forth with new life and hope from the tomb of darkness, which binds our own life or that of others or even, that which binds our world!
Sister Diane Marie Corrado, CSFN
