The story of Lazarus, the Gospel for coming Sunday, makes me think that death does not only refers to physical death. There have been times in my life when it feels like something inside has died, when I feel trapped by anxiety and fear. I’m caught in a tomb of my own making. I can’t hear Jesus calling, prompting and encouraging me.
Eventually when I’m exhausted, I let go and give God a chance. A flicker of belief brings some hope after disappointment, a whisper of trust returns after betrayal and the invitation to faith seems plausible after a period of doubt.
The Gospel assures us that Jesus stands beside us just as he stood at Lazarus’ tomb. He weeps with us and for us just like he did with Martha and Mary. He knows our struggles. He does not turn away from our grief. Instead, he calls us by name and invites us back into life.
Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, let him go free.’
Virginia Ryan