Lazarus Saturday — Jesus Calls Me to Life

Gospel Reading: John 11:1–45

Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead after four days in the tomb. In Bethany, a village called “the house of affliction,” Jesus shows His full divinity and humanity: He weeps (His humanity), and He commands Lazarus to come out of the grave (His divinity). “One incarnate nature of the Word” — St. Cyril the Great.

Key Verse:

“Lazarus, come forth!” — John 11:43

Church Life Today:

The Divine Liturgy is celebrated using the yearly rite.The evening service begins the Palm Sunday chants, ending with a joyful procession.

Spiritual Message:

Jesus is not just a teacher or healer. He is life itself. He comes to your Bethany—the place of your pain—and calls you by name to rise.

Catechumen Truth:

Christ is both God and man. He enters into our human sorrow and has power to overcome death. He weeps with us—but He doesn’t stop there. He raises us.

Practice for Today:

Today, take a moment of quiet stillness. Close your eyes and imagine Jesus standing outside the tomb of your soul.

Say: “Jesus, bring life into what feels dead inside me.”

Then reflect:

• Where have I buried hope?
• What area of my life do I think can never change?

Write it down. Then write:
“Lazarus, come forth.”
Let that be your prayer today.

Quote:

“Jesus works with you and for you because He loves you.” — Pope Tawadros II

This reflection draws from the teachings of H.H. Pope Tawadros II in his work, “An Educational Summary for the Holy Pascha.”