FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT 23

V LENT SUNDAY, 26 MARCH 2023, RAISING OF LAZARUS Reflection 1 Focus: Suffering is not  necessarily a sign of God's punishment , but is a testing and gracing occasion  1. The miracle of raising of Lazarus has different aspects of a life of faith. We will learn more lessons, if we move our focus from beyond the aspect of the miracle of restoring life. God is the author of life. It is He who gives life, sustains and nourishes life, strengthens it, guides and orients it, satisfies and accomplishes it, fills it and fulfills it. It is He who restores it as well. 2. Painful experiences such as death, suffering, separation are not to discourage and dissipate us, but are to be taken as testing and trusting experiences, testing the depth and quality of our faith, and trusting in God with perseverance. In Jesus' own words, time of affliction is a time that manifests God's glory. They are special occasions to witness God's intervention. 3. This is what is seen in the encounter and dialogue between Jesus and Martha and Mary. The anguishing moment of their brother Lazarus' death becomes a vital moment of attestation of faith in the Lord: "If you had been here, my brother would not have died only; but even now I know that God will grant whatever you ask". Jesus reveals, "I am the resurrection and the life" and asks, "Do you believe this?"  Martha responds, "Yes, Lord I believe that you are the Christ". 4. It is no more a faith in some truth or doctrine, but faith in the person of Jesus. It is a personal relationship and loyalty. True faith is deepening our love and intimacy with Jesus. 5. Seen in this light and perspective of faith, suffering and problem are no more saddening and draining experiences, but are strengthening, challenging and testifying experiences. They are occasions of glorifying God. 6. Restoration of life to Lazarus also indicates the very nature, mission and end of Jesus as the Saviour. He gives life to others, and thereby he risks his own life. In other words, he dies so as to give life to others. Direction: Life in eternity is our destiny and our earthly life in temporality must be an orientation and preparation to it