I just got off the phone with my friend. We have known each other since kindergarten, 57 years ago! We have shared many personal experiences and many important times together, good and not so good. We have a meaningful relationship, and I can call on her when I need my spirits lifted.
Jesus called on God, and God listened when Jesus called. In this case, Jesus called upon God to restore Lazarus to life.
We, too, can have this same relationship with God and can also be restored to life here on earth and eternally, when we call on God. I have experienced God’s restorative powers in my own life in so many ways. God has brought me from the depths of divorce, grief and fear to restore me to the joy of living again. Daily, God helps me to be restored to life from mistakes and challenges in order to experience forgiveness. God listens. God lifts up. God calls us to be restorers of life for each other here and now.
Thank you, listening God, for hearing me when I call. Amen. —