Getting Up When You're Down

Reflection: The Lenten season enters its 5th week on Sunday and, as such, we are seeing the end in sight for our time in “Boot Camp for the Soul.”* Just as those in military boot camp who have felt the heat, we may all be feeling a bit tired, a bit drained, a bit, as they say, “asleep on our feet.”  We can see the finish line before us – but wonder: is it something I will have the strength to reach? 
Often, it takes another to pick us up, to stand with us and be for us the strength we need to keep going. Often – it takes a friend to help us get up and reach the end – yes?

Let’s be honest: Lent – when taken seriously – can be a long tough journey.   This “boot camp” requires a lot of us – but when taken seriously – can be life changing.  It can, in fact, result in a life lived anew.  In the end, this is the promise - for me and for you.  A promise fulfilled on the cross and in the empty tomb.

Our Gospel reading this week is again familiar - and again a bit long (covering almost an entire chapter from the Gospel of John).  Putting ourselves in it - we’ll experience again the “raising” of Lazarus - Jesus’ good friend.  We will stand, too, with his friends Mary who wonders “where were you?” and her sister Martha whose faith assures her that Jesus is the Messiah – her only source of real strength to get her through.

And – we’ll take our place with those who are called to stand with any and all who have been brought back from the dead, helping them to get back on their feet and walk again.

Think: Who might be “asleep on their feet” and in desperate need of hearing Jesus calling to them: “Come Out!”  For whom might you be a source of spiritual strength derived from your faith?  Who is bound in spirit that needs to be freed?

Perhaps it’s you – and that’s okay.  Jesus is calling to you “Come Out!” in just the same way.