Reflection on John 11:45-56 One of the great privileges of being a grandparent is experiencing wonder in companionship with a little child. With a three-year-old leading the way, the discovery of an early Spring flower can become a jaw-dropping surprise, joyfully examined and exclaimed over.
During these times with a grandchild, I beg for the grace to respond to the life around me with that kind of wonder, to rediscover all of reality as the Father’s mysterious gift.
But my heart can be hard, and I recognize my tendency toward preconception, indifference, or deference to the opinion of others about what is “wonder-full” and what is not.
This same reality happens in John’s gospel, but this time in response to an astonishing event: the raising of Lazarus after four days in the tomb. And what is the response of the powerful men of the day? “So from that day on they planned to kill him” (Jn 11:53).
Only a child-like heart can recognize the wonder of a Man who just answered the deepest desire of our humanity that death somehow be overcome. How could those in power miss the wondrous possibilities for themselves and their loved ones shown through this amazing sign of Life?
As a sinner, I understand just how this happens. And so during these days of Lent, I beg Christ for wonder and a child-like heart.