A Sister Speaks
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Ezekiel 37:12–14 / Psalm 130:7 / Romans 8:8–11 / John 11:1–45 or 11:3–7, 17, 20–27, 33b–45
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Reflecting on the Word
By Rev. James A. Wallace, C.Ss.R.
So, I’m pushy. At least that’s what Mary was always telling me. “Martha, you don’t have to say everything that comes into your mind,” she would whisper. Like the time when she left me to do all the work in the kitchen while she plopped herself down at Jesus’ feet. No sense going into that—you know the story.
But this time being pushy paid off. Our younger and only brother had taken ill with fever. We waited to send word, thinking it would pass, but then early one morning, our beloved Lazarus died. We were heartbroken. He was our protector, our friend, the apple of both our eyes. Never to hear his voice, or pretend annoyance at his silly jokes at our expense. Neither of us could stop crying. As soon as word came that Jesus had reached the outskirts of the village, I went out to him. I was beside myself with grief: “Where were you? Why didn’t you come? If you had, he would not have died.” My anger and sorrow broke against him like waves during a summer storm. He listened, then spoke: “He will rise again.” “Yes, I know . . . on the last day.” His eyes looked into my soul: “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever lives and believes in me will never die, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” That is the question, isn’t it? Do you believe his words? Do you believe him? Do you believe he is the resurrection and life? Well, do you?
Consider/Discuss
- Is there anything you want to ask Martha? Or say to her?
- What does it mean to believe Jesus is the resurrection and the life?
Responding to the Word
Lord, death seems so merciless, so final. It is hard to believe life can ever be restored. Help us to trust your word and the promise of the Father that death will not be victorious. Help us to place our trust in you as the Lord of life.