Waiting on CPR

Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" ~ John 11: 8-9

Today’s Gospel reading is that of the raising of Lazarus, which happens to be the second longest continuous narrative of John’s Gospel. The longest one is the Passion which will be read next week. This event on the road to Calvary will ultimately cause the leaders to kill Jesus—such an irony since what Jesus does is give life back to someone.

This morning, as most Sunday mornings, I did my morning prayer, listened to the Praise and Worship time on the Christian radio station, and generally, sabbathed. Yes, I know that is not really a word, but I like to think of it as one. During the break in the music, the radio announcer said this zinger, “If you’re not honest with God, that is where it all starts.” He meant that is where it all breaks down. As I thought about Lazarus in the tomb, I believe that oftentimes we are in our own self-imposed grave and this happens when we are not honest with God and ourselves. Jesus can yell all he wants, “Come out, Suzanne!” but if I am sulking in my cave and got that big rock in front of it, I won’t really care. How often do we do that, and then ironically, blame God for not getting us out of the dark place?

Fr. Brian Massie one time spoke of Lazarus as receiving resuscitation instead of a resurrection. Christ did a mini-CPR on him as he returned in his earthly body and went on his way. This Lent I have become more and more aware of the moments that I need spiritual CPR as I crawl way into the back of the cave with my sins and avoid the Light. I am making headway though. Unbind me!! I may be ready to come out as a new creation by the time Holy Week rolls around.

How about you? Ready to come out yet?

Peace,

Suzanne