(First century) Martha and Mary provided hospitality to Jesus in Bethany (Luke 10:38-42), and they are depicted as beloved by Him in the story of the raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-44). They are mentioned again when, sharing a meal with Jesus, Mary anoints His feet with “costly ointment.” The Jewish leaders planned to kill Lazarus because so many others were converting on account of Jesus resurrecting him from the dead (John 12:1-11). This precedes and sets the stage for Palm Sunday.

Recovery can be like being raised from the dead. The witness we provide can be exactly what the person still suffering in their addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment needs to know what is possible. Had we not seen others “raised from the dead,” we might not have believed it possible ourselves. We don’t do it on our own. There is a Power greater than ourselves. Jesus says: “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26).

“Your brother will rise again” (John 11:23).

Reflection by Brad Farmer