Sunday, April 6th, "Rolling Stones"

“Take away the stone.”
John 11:39a
(entire reading is John 11:1–45)



Breath Prayer: “rolling away”     “stones”

     Stones have been with us (literally and figuratively) all along our Lenten journey. They have marked our path, sometimes showing us which direction to travel next. The small ones, the pebbles, have caused us to limp a bit and given us blisters in our shoes.  All around us. Always have been.

     Jesus’ words to the neighbors and family gathered around Lazarus’ tomb sound chilling, foreboding. Those of us who have traveled this Lenten path before, know of another stone awaiting another tomb in weeks to come. Here is Jesus, prophet announcing that stones can’t always hold us; they aren’t able to contain life.

     Today is a good day to think about the stones we have rolled in place in our lives. What stones have we rolled into place, denying access and denying life? What have we buried deep beneath a weary weight? May we stop and reflect upon theses things. May we allow for the rolling away of stones; allow for what has been held captive to be released. May we recognize that new life awaits us, new life that is greater than any stone.

Prayer: Gracious God, you remind us again this day that life is greater than death, that light is greater than darkness. In your compassion give us the strength and courage to roll away the stones in our lives. Bring us life, we pray and set us free. Teach us to believe again and to not lose sight of you. Amen.

---