LAZARUS SATURDAY

Today, we commemorate the Resurrection of Lazarus, the seventh and last sign of our Lord Jesus Christ described in the Gospel of John (John 11:1-46).

Jesus Christ freed Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, from the grasp of death and restored him to life through the power of His word: “Lazarus, come out!” The same voice that brought the universe to life now called Lazarus from the darkness of death to the light of life.

The Gospel passage about Lazarus’s resurrection points to the hope of resurrection and the new life that we have in Jesus Christ. This sign is also a promise to all believers. If we place our trust in God, then no hardship, trial, or even death can deprive us of eternal life with Him. In the midst of troubles, difficulties, and suffering, let us fix our eyes on Jesus Christ and remember His promise of eternal life.

To all those who are mourning, discouraged, and lonely, the Lord Jesus says: “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Martha’s response made the resurrection of her brother Lazarus possible. She said to Jesus, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world” (John 11:27).

And what is our response? Do we believe what He said?

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan

March 23, 2024