One of the most challenging – perhaps the most challenging – thing we as humans deal with is our mortality.

On the one hand, we understandably often don’t think about it too much. But we all eventually have to confront it in one way or another as we lose loved ones and eventually face it ourselves.

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus does precisely this. He knows His own Passion is coming soon, and his apostles know Jerusalem is a dangerous place to be. Hence Thomas, when Jesus says they need to go back to Judea says, “let us also go to die with him.” (John 11:16 – a good verse to think of when you are tempted to call Saint Thomas a “doubter!). But Jesus insists they go back to raise Lazarus, their friend.

As the Gospel unfolds, we learn that Lazarus has been dead for several days. People are weeping and in mourning. Jesus is moved and weeps as well. But then He raises Lazarus who removes his burial cloths.

I’ve always loved this Gospel, and I wish it were used more at funerals because it shows us the different aspects of death that are important to remember as we grapple with it.

For one, the presence of the Lord. At every funeral the Easter Candle is lit and placed next to the earthly remains of the person; this symbolizes how Jesus is always there with His love. It is there to comfort us, but also to envelop us as the believer is welcomed into the loving arms of the Lord.

Second, grief. If Jesus cries (“And Jesus wept”: John 11:35), so can we. Sometimes a person I think feels the need to “get over” death quickly. But we never do. As we go through life the wounds are there, much like the wounds on Jesus’ body, and these include the wounds of loss. Remember the film “Inside Out” where each emotion was deemed important, and not meant to be suppressed? So, it is with sadness. Even years later we sometimes just need to let that emotion run over us.

Third, compassion. Jesus is moved with compassion to be with Martha and Mary. Never forget the spiritual work of mercy to “Bury the Dead.” Just being present at a funeral means so much. So does a phone call or a card both at the time of the funeral or on the anniversary of the death; or just letting someone talk and being with them when they are hurting over loss.

Lastly, the resurrection. Lazarus rises, and while he’ll die again, he will also rise and be with Jesus, Martha and Mary forever. In 2 weeks we celebrate Easter, the Vigil begins with the words, “On this most sacred night, when our Lord Jesus passed over from death to life…” It’s such a beautiful liturgy that reminds us of our own resurrection possible with the Lord. Good Friday will come, but the Lord will lead us through the stormy waters to His love.

Death is never easy to deal with, but may we never forget because of Jesus, Ash Wednesday is not the end of the story – Easter Sunday is.

Have a blessed week!
Fr. Paul

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March 22, 2026