Jesus hears of the illness and death of his friend, Lazarus, then raises him from the dead. In this episode, we walk with Jesus as he journeys to the home of Martha and Mary. Go with him to the tomb and watch as he weeps for his friend, then commands him to come out.
“Before He raises Lazarus, He asks Martha and Mary to believe, saying, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in me, although they be dead, shall live.’” - Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius 285
It can be helpful to review the text of a story before you begin a contemplative exercise. This episode is based on the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, found only in John 11: 1-44.
Use the following images if you would like some help guiding your imagination to build this scene, but only insofar as they are helpful. Please don’t feel restricted by these images. Allow your imagination to add or change details as it happens naturally for you. Don’t worry about complete historical accuracy. The point of the exercise is connection with Jesus.
Walk with Jesus to the home of Martha and Mary.
Jesus stands outside of Lazarus' tomb and tells them to take the stone away.
Jesus calls to Lazarus to come out of the tomb.
