by: Deacon Paul Rooney (deaconpaul@cox.net)
Fifth Sunday of Lent
(Cycle “A" – March 13, 2005)

Q. 310: John always seems to weave his stories with a main plot and one or more subplots. Is there more going on here than the great miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead (Jn 11:1-45)?

A. 310: That miracle in itself is a great theme for reflection, since it increases our faith and gives us all great hope for eternal life. But let’s look at another dimension of the story. You will notice that Jesus involves other people in his work. He tells them to “take away the stone”; “unbind him”; “let him go.” These are not simple requests; they are imperatives, commands that call for immediate action.

Now let’s take this to another level, which John wants us to do. What are the “stones” that become a barrier between me and Jesus, or between someone else and Jesus? Is it a lifestyle or habit that needs to change, or an addiction that needs attention? Barriers are freely chosen, and become obstacles to the life in the spirit that only Jesus can provide. What part do we play in “binding” others, thus preventing a loving relationship to occur? Perhaps we still hold grudges or grievances or resentments, and withhold forgiveness from another? We need to release those forms of anger, which bind both us and another. Jesus commands us to unbind those who are bound, and let them go. A helping hand, a loving word, a compassionate counseling can begin the process of “taking away the stone” from the life of one who needs to be set free.

Know Your Catechism! Jesus links faith in the resurrection to his very own person (CCC#994). St. Augustine taught that this one point of our Christian faith encounters more opposition than any other (CCC#996). Change can be brought about in many ways, including gestures of reconciliation and loving fraternal correction (CCC#1435) – a great way to prepare for the joy of Easter.

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha