Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Episode 29

AUDIO MEDITATION:

Jan Wydra (Polish, 1902-1937), The Raising of Lazarus. Public domain.

FULL TEXT:

When Jesus arrived at the home of Lazarus and his sisters, Martha said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.”

The characters in this painting all show indistinct, blurred features; the figures farthest from Jesus lack even color. It seems that proximity to Jesus and his saving work is what gives the people in this scene definition and personality.

Lazarus’ face holds the clearest features. At this point in the Gospel, Lazarus knows better than anyone else the journey through death to life. His interaction with grace has deepened his character and made him whole again.

The same is true for us—cooperating with grace helps us fully become the people we are created to be. It is a journey that will not be complete until we submit to death and rise to new life in the Lord.

How might we put ourselves in the Lord’s hands today and welcome his life-giving grace?