“Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?”
5th Sunday of Lent (A)
John 11:1-45 tells the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. This event is not only significant for what it tells us about Jesus’ power and authority, but it also has important implications for our understanding of the Catholic Church and its history.
One of the key themes in this passage is the importance of faith. When Jesus arrives at the tomb of Lazarus, he tells Martha that “your brother will rise again.”
In the history of the Catholic Church, there have been many moments when faith has been tested and challenged. From the early days of persecution under the Roman Empire, to the conflicts and controversies of the Middle Ages and the Reformation, to the scandals and crises of the modern era, the Church has faced many trials and tribulations. But throughout it all, the message of Jesus in this passage remains the same: those who believe in him, even though they die, will live.
The Catholic Church is a family made up of people from all races, ages, and economic backgrounds. It has spanned centuries and continents, with a mission to care for the sick, help the poor, educate children, and defend the dignity of all human life. The Catholic Church developed the scientific method and founded the college system. It compiled the Bible and is guided by sacred scripture and tradition. With over 1 billion members, the Catholic Church invites those who have been away to take another look and come back home. The church is grounded in the eternal love that God has for all creation, and it remains a consistent, true, and strong source of faith in a world filled with chaos, hardship, and pain.
This image of God bringing life out of death is a powerful one for the Catholic Church, which has often been associated with the themes of resurrection and renewal. Just as Jesus brought Lazarus back to life, the Church has been called to bring new life to the world through its teachings, sacraments, and witness to the Gospel. And just as Lazarus emerged from the tomb, still wrapped in his burial clothes, the Church is also called to help people shed the trappings of sin and death, and to embrace the new life that God offers.
Finally, this passage reminds us of the importance of community in the life of faith. When Jesus arrives at the tomb, he is greeted by Martha and Mary, as well as many other people who have gathered to mourn Lazarus. These individuals play an important role in the story, as they witness the power of God at work and are invited to share in the joy and wonder of Lazarus’ resurrection.
In the history of the Catholic Church, community has always been a central aspect of the faith. From the early Christian communities described in the New Testament, to the monastic orders of the Middle Ages, to the parish communities and movements of the modern era, the Church has always emphasized the importance of coming together as a community of believers. It is in this community that we find strength, support, and encouragement to live out our faith in the world.
