As we approach Good Friday, today’s readings remind us of the themes of suffering, faith, and resurrection. The Gospel (John 11:1-45) recounts the raising of Lazarus, a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus’ own resurrection. This miracle demonstrates Christ’s authority over death, but it also calls us to deeper faith as we prepare for Holy Week.
The shadow of the cross: The raising of Lazarus directly precedes Jesus’ Passion. It is one of the events that leads the religious leaders to seek His death. This reminds us that suffering is part of the Christian journey. We must be willing to follow Jesus, even to the Cross, knowing that suffering does not have the last word.
Removing the stones in our lives: When Jesus commands, “Take away
Christ’s compassion and our suffering: One of the most moving moments in today’s Gospel is the shortest verse in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” Even though He knows He will raise Lazarus, Jesus still grieves. This reveals that God shares in our pain and sorrow. As we approach Good Friday, we remember that Christ not only suffered physically but also carried our emotional and spiritual burdens.
Jesus asks Martha, “Do you believe this?” This question challenges us to trust God even in times of suffering. As we prepare for Holy Week, we must ask ourselves if we truly believe in the power of Christ’s resurrection, even when we do not understand His plan. Let us use these final days of Lent to remove spiritual obstacles, embrace Christ’s suffering, and renew our faith in the promise of resurrection. “Yes, Lord, I believe.” Amen.