![]() ![]() Better to get rid of Jesus sooner rather than later.ġ) Lazarus’ name means, “God is my help.” He is Mary and Martha’s brother, a follower of Jesus, and a friend whom Jesus loved ( John 11:3). And Jesus, having just narrowly escaped death by stoning, has fled the region - but Mary and Martha send word to him that Lazarus is gravely ill. Speak from the heart, and he will hear you.All Saints Day (Year B): John 11:32-44 (or, for more context, John 11:1-45 )ġ) This passage for All Saints’ Day is part of the larger story of Lazarus’ death and resurrection ( John 11:1-45), and that larger story is worth reading - both for context and for its beautiful language (including Martha’s confession that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world” ( John 11:27)).Ģ) John’s Gospel is organized around seven astounding “signs” that reveal Jesus’ identity and mission. The turning of water into wine is the first of these signs, and this week’s reading, the raising of Lazarus, is the seventh. John’s name for these events - “signs” - clarifies their purpose: they’re supposed to catch our attention (even catch our breath!), drawing us toward life with and in God. Like road signs, these events point beyond themselves to bigger, deeper realities.ģ) In the previous chapter, Jesus has just declared himself “the good shepherd,” who “lays down his life for the sheep” so “they may have life, and have it abundantly” ( John 10:10-11). And now he makes good on that declaration, risking his life to save Lazarus’ - and setting in motion the backlash that will lead to the cross.Ĥ) Indeed, immediately following this episode, the religious authorities decide Jesus must be “put to death” ( John 11:53). Their reasoning goes like this: Signs such as raising the dead will inspire the masses to believe in him, and the Roman occupiers, fearing an insurrection, will crack down on all of us, destroying our temple and nation. Which begs the question: Why would the authorities think this particular sign, the raising of Lazarus, would tip the scales in the eyes of the people?ĥ) Ezekiel gives us a clue (you might consider also reading Ezekiel 37:1-14 this week). According to the prophet, God says, “You shall know that I am the LORD when I open your graves” ( Ezekiel 37:13). Ezekiel probably wrote from exile in Babylon, and Ezekiel 37:1-14 is likely an allegorical picture - with military overtones, since “the valley” appears to be a battlefield - of God reinvigorating “the house of Israel” ( Ezekiel 37:2,11). With passages like this in mind, then, many in Jesus’ day would have been ready to interpret the raising of Lazarus - an “opening of a grave” - as a signal that God is about to vindicate Israel, vanquish the Roman occupation, and restore the nation “on your own soil” ( Ezekiel 37:14). This interpretation could provoke a popular uprising, or at the very least a credible rumor of one - and the Roman response would likely be brutal. Even if you are not a Catholic, you can ask him for help with healing, pain relief, and protection from illness. To Catholics, Saint Lazarus is a symbol of Jesus' power over death. I open my mind and heart believing in your infinite power. Give me strength to resist temptation and live in wellness. Intercede with all your hearts blood, to liberate me from those who would interrupt my path. ![]() ![]() You, the sublime and generous protector, who opens your heart to all good people. I look to you, Saint Lazarus to confuse them and remove them from my life. Please keep away all the wicked, miserable people who lurk in the shadows seeking to harm me. Cleansing, purifying and restoring to me wellness and strength. May your healing hands rest upon me, flowing into every cell in my body and into the depths of my soul. Saint Lazarus Prayer: “Saint Lazarus I ask in your most sacred and sweet name that you help me on the path of spiritual peace and material success. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |