As we enter the Fifth Sunday of Lent, the Church places before us one of the most powerful signs of Jesus’ mission: the raising of Lazarus. This moment is not only a miracle—it is a revelation. Jesus stands before the tomb and declares, “I am the resurrection and the life.” These words are not simply a promise for the future; they are a truth meant to transform our present. In Lazarus, we see every human heart that has known darkness, grief, or hopelessness. And in Jesus, we see the God who calls us out of every tomb.

Mary and Martha both respond to Jesus in their own ways. Martha meets Him with faith mixed with sorrow, yet she proclaims, “I believe that you are the Christ.” Mary approaches Him with tears, trusting that He understands her pain. Jesus receives both sisters with tenderness. He does not rush past their grief; He enters it. He weeps with them. And then He acts. Their story reminds us that faith is not the absence of sorrow—it is the courage to bring our sorrow to Christ and allow Him to speak life into it.

This week we also celebrate the Annunciation of the Lord on March 25, when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bear the Son of God. In that moment, the Word became flesh, and the long-awaited Savior entered our world. Mary’s “yes” opened the way for the One who would later stand before Lazarus’ tomb and command life to return. Her faith made possible the very miracle we reflect on today.

As we draw closer to Holy Week, the raising of Lazarus invites us to trust that no situation is beyond God’s reach. The Annunciation reminds us that God is always drawing near, always entering our lives with grace.

Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, Resurrection and Life, call us out of every darkness that binds us. Through the intercession of Mary, who welcomed Your Word, and the faith of Martha and Mary of Bethany, strengthen our hope and deepen our trust. Bring new life to our hearts as we prepare for Easter. Amen.

Love and prayers,

Fr. Charley