Last week’s narrative of the healing of the man born blind reminded readers that the sign accomplished was meant “so that the works of God might be made visible” (Jn 9:3). While Thomas is committed to go on a suicide mission, Jesus is committed to help his disciples believe in the greater divine plan (see Jn 11:15). Thomas heightens the tension already in air by referring to the Jerusalemites who are ready to stone Jesus when they see him (see Jn 10:31). “Let us also go,” Thomas says to his companions, “to die with him” (Jn 11:16). Thomas misunderstands the reason for going to Bethany to “awaken” Lazarus from his sleep. John the Evangelist has taken a healing story and crafted the narrative to highlight not the resuscitation of Lazarus, but the death and resurrection that Jesus will embrace. The theology behind the powerful sign in today’s scene takes precedence. ![]() Like the prayer during the preparation of the altar at mass, he will share in our humanity. Although Christ shares his divinity with Lazarus, this same scene holds in tension Jesus’ human frailty and foreshadows his crucifixion. In this Sunday's Gospel passage, Jesus decides to return to Bethany and raise Lazarus from the dead, an act with significant consequences for his mission. In the raising of Lazarus, both the scene and the sign mark within the Gospel of John the transitional point that begins Jesus’ own passion narrative. What are the implications to your life that Christ shares in your humanity? ![]() How have you experienced the spiritual dying and rising of Lent thus far? How do the signs in this Sunday’s Gospel passage speak to you?
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |