Day 23 - The Resurrection Promise: Lessons from Lazarus During Lent

by Jeff McKinney

John 11:1-44

As we journey through the Lenten season, we find ourselves reflecting on themes of mortality, sacrifice, and ultimately, resurrection. One of the most profound stories that encapsulates these themes is the account of Lazarus, a dear friend of Jesus, who was raised from the dead after four days in the tomb. This miraculous event is not just a display of Jesus’ power; it is a powerful reminder of the hope and renewal that we anticipate during this sacred season.

Lazarus’ story begins with his illness and subsequent death. When Jesus arrives in Bethany, he finds that Lazarus has already been buried for four days. Martha, Lazarus’ sister, expresses her grief and disappointment, saying, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). How often do we find ourselves in similar situations of despair? We may feel abandoned in our struggles or question God’s timing in our lives. Lent invites us to acknowledge our own feelings of grief and loss, much like Martha and Mary.

Jesus Weeps

One of the most poignant verses in this narrative is John 11:35: “Jesus wept.” This simple yet profound statement reveals the depth of Jesus’ compassion. He empathizes with the sorrow of those around him. During Lent, we are called to recognize our own pain and the pain of others. As we engage in practices of fasting, prayer, and reflection, let us not shy away from the suffering we encounter but instead bring it before God. Jesus’ tears remind us that our grief is seen and felt by our Savior.

The Call to Faith

In the face of death and despair, Jesus challenges Martha’s faith when he declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (John 11:25). This statement serves as a powerful invitation to us during Lent. How do we respond to the promise of resurrection in our own lives? Lent is a time to examine our faith, to ask ourselves if we truly believe that Jesus is the source of life and hope.

As we reflect on our Lenten practices, let us consider what “grave clothes” we need to shed. Just as Lazarus came out of the tomb still wrapped in burial garments, we too may find ourselves bound by habits, fears, or doubts that keep us from fully experiencing the life God intends for us. Lent encourages us to lay these aside, embracing the new life that Jesus offers.

The Hope of Resurrection

The climax of the Lazarus story is not just the miracle of his physical resurrection, but the deeper truth it reveals about Jesus' authority over life and death. This theme resonates profoundly as we prepare for the celebration of Easter. The raising of Lazarus foreshadows Jesus’ own resurrection and assures us that death does not have the final word.

As we move through Lent, let us hold onto the hope that comes from knowing that through Christ, we too will experience resurrection. This hope calls us to live differently–to embody the love and compassion of Jesus in our daily lives, reaching out to those who are suffering, just as he did.

In this Lenten season, may we be inspired by the story of Lazarus. Let us acknowledge our grief, confront our doubts, and embrace the transformative power of faith. Jesus wept with Martha and Mary, and he calls us to believe in the resurrection and the life he offers. As we prepare our hearts for Easter, let us remember that through Christ, we are invited to step out of the darkness of the tomb into the light of new life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we journey through this Lenten season, help us to reflect on the story of Lazarus and the promise of resurrection it holds. Teach us to bring our grief and doubts before you, trusting in your compassion and love. May we shed the grave clothes that bind us and embrace the new life you offer through your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.