I have been continuing to think about last Sunday’s Gospel, the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. What resonates with me is the way that Martha and Mary spoke to Jesus and their attitude toward Him. When each of them met Jesus separately, they said the exact same words: “Lord, if you had been here my brother would not have died.” They knew that everyone dies at some point, why did they think that their brother should be exempt? Because Jesus was their friend?

Father Rich has spoken to us on the misguided prosperity gospel message of some ministers. They teach that if we love Jesus and are faithful enough, then we won’t suffer, and our lives will be happy, healthy, and prosperous. As Catholics, we believe that God allows suffering to bring a greater good and I believe that this Gospel illustrates that doctrine and blows the whole prosperity gospel premise to smithereens.

Lazarus and his sisters were some of Jesus’ closest friends. Yet, when Jesus got Martha and Mary’s message that Lazarus was sick, we are told that, “He remained for two days in the place where he was.” Lazarus was suffering from his illness and his sisters were suffering out of compassion and worry. Jesus allowed them to experience all of it. He didn’t even go immediately to show his support. He was intentionally absent. We learn that He intends to help them, but he does it his way and on his timeline.

When Jesus finally arrived in Bethany, he gave both sisters the opportunity to express their disappointment and frustration. Then He used the situation to elevate their faith. Look at his conversation with Martha and the ultimate question he asks her: “…everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” She responds, “I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God…”

Think of this story when Jesus isn’t answering your prayers as quickly as you would like. He may want to use the opportunity to elevate your faith; He may be allowing you to suffer for a little while. He may be repeating to you his last words to Martha, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?”

Escritura: Read John 11:1-7. What stands out?

Llamamiento a la acción: Reflect back on past sufferings and ask Jesus to reveal the way he used it for good.