John, 11
54. Wherefore Jesus walked no more openly among the Jews; but he went into a country near the desert, unto a city that is called Ephrem, and there he abode with his disciples.
54. Wherefore Jesus walked no more openly among the Jews; but he went into a country near the desert, unto a city that is called Ephrem, and there he abode with his disciples.
Chapter 11 of the Gospel of John narrates the resurrection of Lazarus by Jesus. It is a chapter that brings many reflections on life, death and faith. We selected five verses that deal with these themes:
And Jesus said to him, "I am the resurrection and life. He who believes in me, even if he dies, will live." (John 11:25) In this verse, Jesus affirms his divinity and brings a message of hope and eternal life to those who believe in Him.
"Martha said unto him, I know he will be resurrected in the resurrection on the last day. Jesus said unto him, I am the resurrection and life; whoever believes in me, even if he is dead, will live." (John 11:24-25) Here, Martha expresses her belief in the future resurrection, but Jesus reveals to him that He is the resurrection itself and life, and that eternal life begins now for those who believe in Him.
"Jesus said, Take the stone. He said Martha, sister of the deceased, Lord, she already smells bad, because she is four days. Jesus said unto him, He won't tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" (John 11:39-40) In this verse, Jesus asks them to remove the stone from the tomb, although the body is decaying, and asks Martha to believe in His Word and see the glory of God.
"Jesus cried. The Jews then said, see how he loved Him." (John 11:35-36) This verse shows the humanity of Jesus, who shakes himself from the pain of his friends for the loss of Lazarus. Her cry also highlights the reality of death and her sadness before her.
"And many of the Jews who had come to Mary and, seeing what Jesus had done, believed in him." (John 11:45) The chapter ends with the result of Lazarus's resurrection, which leads many to believe in Jesus. This verse shows how resurrection is a powerful sign of the divinity of Jesus and the truth of His message.
“Nas tribulações é necessário ter fé em Deus.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
