The Rev. Canon Jan Naylor Cope

Today’s Gospel: John 11:28-44

Some years ago on one of our trips to the Holy Land, my husband John and I went to Bethany to the “traditional site” of the tomb of Lazarus. I can remember the very narrow and dimly lit stairwell that one had to descend to enter the tomb. Once inside, the chamber was very small, and I had to get on my hands and knees to actually enter the tomb.

In his book Jesus: A Pilgrimage, Jesuit James Martin described his own experience of the tomb of Lazarus and how he was able in that holy time of prayer to let some things in his life die that he needed to leave in the tomb with Lazarus. He wrote that there were things that were necessary to die in order for him to fully live–things like his need to be liked, his need to be in control, etc. I don’t know about you, but I can relate!

In this season of Lent as we are called to prayer and self-reflection, what in your life needs to die in order for you to experience new life? Take it to the tomb with Lazarus, let it go, and prepare to meet Jesus there calling you to “Come out!” into the light and new life in Him.

Jan+

I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus. God set the stars to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus. In him there is no darkness at all. The night and the day are both alike. The Lamb is the light of the city of God. Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus. (Hymn 490, verse one, The Hymnal 1982)