Today we mark the Fifth Sunday of Lent. It is hard to believe how quickly the days are flying by. In today's Gospel we hear the familiar story of the death of Lazarus. Is it a story about death or a story about true friendship? In the story Lazarus has died and is int he tomb, Jesus does not go immediately but waits. When Martha reproached him for not getting there sooner, Jesus takes the opportunity to teach her about death and the glory of God. Jesus tells them to roll away the stone and weeps. He wept at the death of his friend. Before Jesus raises Lazarus he speaks aloud to his Father so all the mourners can hear him.
Jesus raised Lazarus and many begin to believe in him. In this story Jesus is teaching about God's glory and that he, the Son of God, will be glorified too. Jesus wants them to believe in him and what he teaches. He wants us to believe and trust in him too. As we journey this day let us reflect on what it is we need to be freed from, unbound from, untied from. Like Lazarus let us trust that Jesus will free us from all that keeps us bound. Let us be people of hope and not despair. Let us welcome Jesus into our lives to heal and save us as we continue to prepare for the celebration of Easter.