John 11:1–45
Time passes and we are already nearing the end of our journey toward Easter. Next Sunday begins Holy Week. During this Lenten journey, we have had opportunities to listen, to fast, and to grow in conversion, as the Pope has invited us. Today, the Word of God leads us to the heart of the mystery of Jesus: “I am the resurrection and the life.”
We remember how John the Baptist, from prison, sent his disciples to ask Jesus: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect another?” (cf. Lk 7:22–23). And among the signs Jesus gives in response is this decisive one: the dead are raised.
This is precisely the focus of today’s Gospel: the raising of Lazarus. We are struck by the deep friendship and familiarity between Jesus and these three siblings: Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. How often Jesus must have found rest and strength in their home for his mission! Yet, as in every family, suffering and trial come.
Martha and Mary send word to Jesus: “Lord, the one you love is ill.” At first, it seems that Jesus does not give importance to the message. He says: “This illness will not end in death, but is for the glory of God.”
After two days, he decides to go to Judea. The disciples warn him of the danger, since people had recently tried to stone him. But Jesus firmly responds: “Are there not twelve hours in the day? Whoever walks in the light does not stumble.” Then he says: “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going to awaken him.” Later he speaks plainly: “Lazarus has died. And I am glad for you that I was not there, so that you may believe.”
What determination Jesus shows! Returning to Bethany and performing this sign meant exposing himself to death at the hands of the religious authorities. Yet he continues on his way. Even Thomas says: “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”
With Martha and Mary, we approach the heart of Easter: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
And Jesus responds with one of the most profound statements in the Gospel: “I am the resurrection and the life.”
Deeply moved, Jesus weeps. Then everything unfolds with extraordinary power:
- The stone is removed
- Jesus prays: “Father, I thank you for hearing me… that they may believe you sent me”
- He cries out in a loud voice: “Lazarus, come out!”
- And the dead man comes out
Jesus commands: “Unbind him and let him go.” Jesus has power over death. And that same Spirit, as Paul tells us, will give life also to our mortal bodies. The prophet Ezekiel had already announced that God would open the graves of his people and bring them back to life. And now, in Jesus Christ, God made man, we receive full salvation.
With this hope, strengthened by God’s faithfulness and love, we are sent to proclaim everywhere: God loves us, and we are ready to build his Kingdom each day with grateful hearts.
Sr. Ester López Rodriguez
Rosa Santaeugenia Province
