Message from Augie

In daily living we rarely encounter anything as dramatic as what we encounter today in Ezekiel or the raising of Lazarus.  Yet every relationship restored is a resurrection!

I have many crucifixes, each given by a different person, one is over 50 years old.  They are made pretty identical material wise, but the three people who gave them to me are totally different in lifestyles.  All were “my friends,” but they did not get along and in fact would not talk to each other.  So much disharmony and conflict, but honestly, I can’t tell those crucifixes apart!  I have no idea who gave me which.   OOPS!

Despite the quarrels, I loved these people and cherish their memories.  I do wonder what healing might have been possible for all of us if we have all worked toward restored relationship while they were alive.   A do- over would be nice.  But in contrast to what happens to Lazarus in today’s Gospel, we contemporary folks don’t see many people being raised from the dead.  Or do we?  The raising of Lazarus reveals a profound truth:  that God gives us life, and God calls us to participate in that life-giving work.  Jesus commands Lazarus to come out into life, and he also command Lazarus’ friends to roll away the stone and unbind the dead.

 Jesus is calling us to come into light and life.  And he’s also calling us to roll away the stones of poverty, indifference, violence and personal and social sin that keep others in their tombs.  After all, resurrection isn’t just about death.  It’s also about right now, everyday, turning death to Life and Lent To Easter.

SO THE QUESTON:    With whom, whether from your past or your present, would you love to have those kinds of reunions and conversations?