Lazarus

The three most dramatic words in the Bible are Lazarus, come forth! Man’s perplexing question whether there is life after death was clearly answered when Jesus spoke those words. Lazarus wrapped in death bindings and witnessed by many people, stepped from his grave after four days. It is another proof of the power of Jesus.

Strangely, Lazarus is never again mentioned in scripture. Yet this miracle of our Lord erased all doubts of a second life. Why have religious scholars ignored a man so loved by Jesus? Did Lazarus simply retire to his home to be served by two obedient sisters? Why did Scripture writers fail to explain Lazarus’s activities after being given new life? This writer has pondered such questions. Lazarus simply vanished from Biblical history leaving one to wonder of his later years—but not before showing Jesus’ love is greater than the grave.

Questions tormented me and eventually led to search evasive answers to write Lazarus; a task of more than twenty-five years.

Critics might say any thoughts or conclusions in this fictional novel is speculations—but would they be right? This author never traveled to Bethany or studied at a religious seminary, yet strangely, the story has evidence of revealing historical facts. It is this writer’s hope readers will find renewed faith reading Lazarus.

Because Jesus called his friend Lazarus from the grave, is sufficient reason to justify this story.

God’s peace,

Vernon

Lazarus

Here I am. Send me

Isaiah 7:14

A glance out a window facing east told her dawn was still hidden behind a distant hill.

Snow had fallen during the night dusting distant hills with a white lace topping. Chill winds rattled windows on the low, stone house setting on top of a hill. A narrow and muddy road before the house led four miles to the small the town Bethany. Inside the house the young woman continued to move effortlessly about the small kitchen in near darkness of the early morning.

Martha! Why don’t you light an oil lamp? I don’t see how you can do any work.

The first woman shrugged, refusing to stop her labor as she said, It will be light soon. There is no reason to waste oil.

Martha, we have never been short of oil!

Martha continued unimpressed, yet she offered no objections when her younger sister lit a wall lamp, flooding the low ceilinged room with an orange, flickering glow.

The women continued their respective chores in silence. Martha was taller and her hair fell loosely over firm, square shoulders. Her features were fair and attractive and her unblemished complexion was and the color of fresh cream.

Her sister was opposite in physical appearance. Hair as black as a raven’s reached to her trim waist and her complexion was the color of roasted almonds.

Martha spoke in a low voice, Mary, I saw a man in the market yesterday from Galilee. He said James is here. Our Master should be coming soon!

Her words had an electrifying effect on her sister who lifted her hands from a pan of unleavened bread dough.

Our Messiah is coming? When?

Mary’s eyes widened and her voice trembled when she said, Perhaps still this week!

If only we could get word to Him! Our brother cannot survive many more days.

Martha turned to hide the tears cascading down her face.

Mary’s hands dug into a pan of dough with savage thrusts, caught in her own emotions that seemed about to explode within her.

What are we to do? Martha’s voice implored, drawing a quick reprimand from her sister.

Quiet, Martha! Our brother!

Martha nodded, biting her lip. I am sorry, she began in a more subdued tone. Our brother Lazarus is near death and physicians can do nothing. Only Jesus can save him.

Her hesitation drew Mary’s attention.

Martha spoke in soft, determined words. I fear for our Lord when He comes. We have both heard the fearful rumors. I fear evil men in the Sanhedrin will harm our Lord.

Mary paused to rest probing eyes on her sister.

Martha felt her sister’s scrutiny. In a firm voice she said, You know we have heard gossip in town. I do not trust them!

Mary lifted her eyes to her sister, the yellow glow of a lamp reflecting on her face. We have seen Jesus drive demons from our brother in this very house! We have both heard how He gave sight to the blind and cleansed lepers! Why worry about threats from those ridiculous hypocrites?

Martha came close to Mary and smoothed hair back from her face as she said, Perhaps I am being silly. How can any man harm one so powerful...the Son of God?

Mary smiled up into her face. He teaches love even for one’s enemies. Do not fear for His sake, Martha. Our worry is for our dear brother Lazarus in his room, fighting for life this moment!

Martha took courage from the words and spoke with regained composure. If only we could get word to Jesus, I know he would hurry to our sick brother! He could leave after sunset to avoid the watchful eyes of the council.

Jesus would not exit as a thief in the night!

Martha’s heavy sigh filled the room sensing her fears had not totally disappeared. Mary returned to kneading a pan of dough as worry showed on her face. Her attractive features became tense and her usual sensuous lips were drawn to a thin line.

It was some time before either spoke. Mary’s voice broke the silence. Perhaps we ask too much of our Messiah. You may be right suspecting danger if Jesus comes at this time. The council has men that maneuver for personal gain more than to teach the laws of Moses.

I concern my thoughts for our sick brother. If Jesus does not come soon, our brother will die!

Mary rested her hands on the edge of her mixing bowl as she asked, Martha, can you remember when He came into our lives?

Martha smiled before answering. I will always remember. We were all children. Jesus came with his mother and brothers.

That was after His father Joseph died?

Yes. Mary was a recent widow when they first came. Jesus and Lazarus used to play as boys in our garden. If only we had known then!

Mary said, But Jesus was somehow different from other boys.

Yes, we all sensed it but never spoke our thoughts. Jesus grew into a strong and gentle man. Later Jesus followed his father Joseph’s vocation as a carpenter.

I remember those wonderful times.

Do you recall how James was ashamed of his brother when Jesus began His teachings?

Yes, Mary laughed softly. But eventually he saw that the first born of his parents was truly the promised Messiah.

Martha looked across the table to where her sister stood working. She smiled warmly as she said, I also remember we could never get any work from you when Jesus came after he began teaching! You would sit at his feet for hours while He spoke.

Life returned to Mary’s face as she laughed. I still would! Such wisdom! He speaks of Abraham and Moses as if he knows them personally!

He does.

Sunrays flooded the kitchen before the women finished baking morning bread and preparing food. The aroma of fresh baking filled the room.

Hezar, the family herdsman, was heard taking sheep and goats into the hills for grazing. A soft groan from the rear of the house alerted both sisters.

Martha spread a clean white towel on a table as she glanced towards the rear of the house. Lazarus has awakened.

She placed loaves of bread still hot from the oven on a cloth before selecting the most golden-crusted loaf. She began cutting thin slices while Mary hurried, gathering a pan of warm water and bath towels. Martha placed the bread and a bowl of fruit on a tray. Together they walked into Lazarus’s room. He greeted them with a weak smile.

You are looking more alert this morning, Mary said with a warm smile.

Lazarus raised a feeble hand and pointed towards the window where shafts of sun’s rays illuminated the far end of the room.

Why did you let me sleep so long? It must be mid-day.

His voice sounded weak and his sisters exchanged worried glances. Mary came closer, carrying the pan of water while Martha waited with the food tray.

I didn’t know you had an appointment, Mary teased.

If only that was true, or that I had half the strength of only a few years past.

They detected both discouragement and frailty in his voice. Mary lifted him gently, pushing pillows under his upper body before removing a nightshirt to his waist. He did not protest as her gentle hands bathed him as if he were an infant. He smiled and placed a hand on her arm. Martha had his food ready when Mary finished.

The three ate in silence until Lazarus pushed the tray away, hardly touching the food.

Well, what are you two concealing this time? he asked with a knowing smile.

The sisters exchanged glances. Mary said, The physicians have not found a cure for your illness. We...we were hoping Jesus might come.

They saw excitement light his eyes as he asked, Can this be true?

We have heard this is possible, Martha responded. A man spoke of this yesterday in the marketplace.

I must hold on a little while longer.

Before either sister could speak further, Lazarus closed his eyes and his head lowered on the pillows. Martha removed one of the pillows and gently eased him back onto the bed. His uneven breathing followed them out of the room.

They began cleaning cooking pans and putting food away. Mary asked, Do you think the man you heard in the market knew for certain?

He said the entire village was talking about His coming. Perhaps Jesus will come for the Passover? The man spoke as if James might already be here!

Then we must try to find James. He can rush to tell Jesus His friend Lazarus needs Him, Mary said firmly.

One of us must stay with our brother. Do you prefer to go?

Yes! I will go. Do you mind finishing?

Martha smiled. You know I don’t.

Chapter 2

Laughter filled the steep, narrow road as children darted in and out among houses that seemed to perch like barnacles against the hillside.

A single unpaved street showed signs of being well traveled and rutted by erosion. Yesterday’s light coating of snow had disappeared turning the road into a shallow mud path.

Mary smiled and greeted children by name as they ran past her. She did not slow her pace as she hurried towards Bethany. The village could be seen from the hill’s higher elevation.

Wind blew her robe but she paid no mind to the chilling breeze. A shepherd approached leading his flock of goats. A traditional un-dyed robe appeared inadequate against the cold.

Mary saw the shepherd moved ahead of his flock, leading them as the custom in this southern region, as opposed to northern practice of following the herd. The animals created a long, swaying line along the narrow road. The herdsman greeted Mary.

Hello, Mary. My heart rests with you and Martha! How is my old friend Lazarus this day?

Hello, Elsibar. I am sorry to say my brother grows weaker by the hour.

Elsibar halted before her, and rested on a long, stout wood staff. He drew a soiled cloth from depths of his long robe and wiped perspiration from his face. For an instant he cast his eyes skyward. If only Jesus could come! To think I, a lowly shepherd of goats, have seen the Son of God! I am truly blessed!

Mary nodded with a smile. Yes, and I also. Now I go to try to find James who is said to be in Jerusalem.

I truly pray it becomes so! Perhaps you can find a ride in Bethany?

It is my intention to walk the short distance to Jerusalem.

Mary lingered a moment to appraise the herd. I think your flock grows each year.

Praise God what you say is true, Mary. Still I am no longer certain that is a blessing.

Why do you say such words of ingratitude?

Alas! Even old, reliable water holes our grandfathers knew are now filled with only sand. I face the wrath of townspeople to bring my flock to the town’s well, but otherwise, my flock would perish!

Mary showed concern as she said, The town well is deep and flows the year around. What could be their objection?

True, Mary! God has blessed Bethany with cool and plentiful water, yet local merchants demand I leave as quickly as my animals drink! They complain of the smell, fearful it will drive away customers.

Mary shook her head as she viewed the docile, obedient animals. You are welcome to use our well anytime.

The shepherd raised a callused hand.

Nay! If Martha only had your temperament! She would be most distressed if my goats molested her flowers! But I delay you with idle talk when you are anxious to be on your way.

Yes, I must go. It has been a blessing to see you.

Elsibar pointed a weathered hand toward the distant village.

I hear James may be at the home of the widow Sharon. You know the place?

Yes. I should have suspected he would go there. Thank you. May God’s peace go with you, Elsibar.

And also with you, Faithful One.

Only a few shoppers moved on the town’s only street as Mary hurried towards the widow’s home. She was startled when a voice pleaded, Please, a coin for food. I have not eaten in two days!

She stopped to see a frail man dressed in ragged clothes. He carried a short stick with a woven basket attached. The man held out the basket with pleading eyes.

Mary ignored the customary leper’s basket as she dug into a pocket, and much to the leper’s surprise and protests, pressed coins into his hand.

Touch me not, dear woman, do you not see what I am?

He quickly tried to remove her hand.

I see you are in need.

Pray to the one powerful God you do not become so afflicted!

I do not fear your affliction, nor should you, Mary replied calmly.

The man tugged to free her hand, spilling coins to the ground. He stepped back from the strange woman who had no fear of leprosy.

Do not be afraid, Mary continued. Have you not heard of the Messiah from Galilee?

Even the blind who stumble behind me have heard the name of Jesus! It is for that very reason I have come so far!

"Where is your home?

Kerioth...where I lived and worked until I was cursed with this plague.

Why do you come so far to see Jesus?

To ask His forgiveness of my sins that I might be cleansed and return to the loved ones. They know not if I live or have returned to dust.

You believe Jesus of Nazareth can make you well?

Jesus has the power of God! He is our long awaited Messiah!

Mary smiled warmly to him. Your faith is well placed. It will not go unrewarded. I am called Mary, sister of Lazarus. Our home is at the top of the hill. Jesus may come within the week. Come and be welcome.

The leper knelt low before her, un-mindful of the stares from passing people. Dear Mary, it is not proper or necessary I infest your home! Our Messiah needs only to hear my name and I will be cured.

Tears rolled down the leper’s face covered with ghastly open sores.

Mary was deeply touched. What is your name?

Tola, of the tribe of Cain. Now I am called Tola, the leper.

Mary touched the bowed head before her. Consider your wish done, Tola. Jesus will hear your name the moment I am in His presence. I wish you safe return to your family. Go now and buy food and lodging for yourself.

Tola clutched her robe and kissed the hem. Mary gently pulled his hand free. Go in peace, Tola.

His leper’s bell jingled its warning as he walked away with quickened steps. A man gave them a troubled look as he stepped into the middle of the street to avoid the leper.

Mary paused before a house and looked in both directions on the street. No other person was in sight when she knocked quickly on a closed door. A man she did not know opened it. He stepped aside, holding the door wide when Mary mentioned the name of James. From the darken room James rushed and embraced her.

In the dim light, she had difficulty recognizing faces concealed among the dark shadows. She saw several figures and sensed there were others present in the next room.

Our Rabbi sends His greetings and desires your home’s hospitality for resting shortly. You know Jesus calls your home His home!

Jesus is always welcome. Will He arrive today? Lazarus is in great need of Him!

James heard the urgency in her voice.

I cannot say. He may not come for several days. Crowds hinder his travel along the way. Some want to be healed, some beg forgiveness, others simply come from curiosity. Is there trouble?

Quickly Mary told James of her brother’s illness and fears.

I am truly sorry, Mary, but Jesus certainly will not arrive today.

From a corner a woman’s voice said, Blessed be His name...our delivered Messiah!

Others responded in an enthusiastic chorus. Mary felt her spirit renewed by voices willing to speak their sincere faith.

James assisted her to a wood bench. As her eyes became accustomed to the dim light, she began to recognize friends in the room.

Is this the sister of Lazarus? a whispered voice was heard to ask.

Sssssh! Yes. I have heard he is quite ill.

James turned to Mary. What do the doctors say?

The physician gives medication only to ease his pain. He becomes weaker every hour! We fear only Jesus can save him.

When a fresh lamp was placed on a table Mary saw James’s somber face.

Our Master hears your plea, Mary. If only I could do something.

Only our Master has the needed powers. Mary responded calmly.

A voice spoke from the dark, Praise the name of Jesus, Son of the one true and loving God!

James spoke in a firm voice to the unseen man, Your faith will give you eternal life.

Jesus will not let Lazarus die, a man said firmly. They are friends!

James stood towering above the seated man, his body casting a long shadow across the room.

Death for this world has already been decreed for each of us, David! When the long sleep claims us it will be beyond our understanding. Jesus teaches life continues beyond death’s veil. As faithful followers of our shepherd we have no fear of the dark period. In our Master, there is no eternal sleep. I tell you each of His disciples believe these words.

I believe it! David confessed lifting his hands towards the low ceiling.

James, your words imply my brother may die? Mary challenged.

As day changes to night it is written for each of us.

Why must it be now for Lazarus?

Only the Master has such an answer, Mary. You and Martha must accept whatever fate holds. Still, rejoice knowing the tomb is not the victor.

Mary stood, preparing to leave. I must get back to help Martha. I could not forgive myself if she was alone when...

James placed his arm around her in a caring manner. Mary, do not fret over earthly things.

Mary paused to ask, Why do you all conceal yourselves in this room with inadequate light? What causes you such fear?

The room became still until James spoke. Mary, some fear the council will try to cause trouble when Jesus comes. We who follow our new Messiah are not held in favor with the Sanhedrin. We meet in secret to prevent His betrayal. The threat may be only gossip but it is concern shared by all present here.

Martha said the same to me this morning, but that is foolish talk! Who could harm the Son of God?

Jesus hungers and bleeds the same as other men of flesh.

It is not my desire to see our Messiah harmed. Perhaps I expect too much of love.

The eyes of the disciple fixed on her and said, Mary, Love is never a burden, but a privilege. What one does for another is true love exercised with a pure heart. Gratitude or compensation is never required. Our Master knows your desire for your brother even before He arrives. Return home in peace and care for Lazarus until Jesus, our Lord arrives.

Mary made her way up the dirt road in the closing time of day. She was the only person visible as she walked briskly to the top of the hill.

Martha was preparing vegetables for the evening meal when her sister entered. Questions and answers passed between them.

Martha showed worry as she said, Then it may be days before Jesus comes? By then it will be too late. Listen––even now how he struggles for breath!

Mary bit at her lower lip unable to reply. Martha hurried and sat next to her.

Mary, I had strange dreams last night. I did not mention them before to add to your worry.

Mary lifted her head to look directly into Martha’s eyes. What dreams troubled you?

It was all garbled. I have tried all day to unravel them, but Jesus was in danger. He must be warned!

Mary placed her arms around her. Dear, Martha, didn’t we discuss this morning? Why fret over what can not happen!

Martha was not convinced. Mary laughed softly. When I told James of your concern for Jesus, he said he has heard such talk.

He was not concerned?

Mary paused to laugh, Peter has declared he will fight any man who tries to harm our Messiah!

Martha saw the humor and smiled. I don’t think I would want to witness such a spectacle!

He must have the power of a bull!

Martha washed vegetables, worry showing on her face.

Jerusalem has become a city of corruption and vices. It is an arena of human lions, hungry for wealth and personal gratification. Mary, I tremble wondering if our gentle Master might be walking towards the city’s dangers even now.

Mary stood and sighed deeply. We sit here like two foolish women when we should be happy with the good news. Come, we have work to do.

Chapter 3

The sun passed the meridian of the day taking with it the frail life of Lazarus. Both Mary and Martha were at his bedside when the last breath hung suspended for a few precious seconds, then the chest walls collapsed, expelling the last signs of life.

When the sisters recovered, Martha broke the embrace of her sister. We must get help to prepare for burial. I will begin preparations here. Will you bring friends to help?

Within an hour the house was host to several neighbors moving respectfully doing a myriad of required things.

One woman paused as a new arrival walked past the bedroom.

Is that Joseph of Arimathea, member of the Sanhedrin?

Not so loud! Yes, her companion cautioned.

The inquisitive woman was not satisfied as she continued, Well, the way that body of jackals feels about Jesus, it strikes me odd one of them would come to assist burial of a friend so close to the Rabbi.

Seeing Joseph had disappeared inside the room, her companion said, Have you been so deaf? Joseph has never concealed his friendship to this family! His council position does not restrain him from paying respect at an old friend’s death.

That is obvious, the first woman said with a tinge of sarcasm.

The body was prepared, and then carried to a place for burial before sunset, according to Jewish law. A sepulcher had been carved from out of a barren hillside. Natural stone formed the entrance to the tomb’s dark interior.

After the body of Lazarus was placed inside the vacant tomb, several mourners stood mute as a cover rock was forced into place sealing the door.

A lesser number of friends after attending the funeral returned to the house. Refreshments waited. Neighbor women who stayed behind had food prepared when the group returned. Hezar, the family’s herdsman and his wife Diane, were visible assisting guests in the crowded house.

Joseph of Arimathea returned with the grieving sisters and found a quiet place in the family garden to meditate. He seated himself on a small bench deep in thought and cast a worried view about the peaceful setting.

* * *

Thomas found Jesus walking near an olive grove and hurried to Him.

Lord, have you heard our friend Lazarus is ill? Word comes by many that he might soon die.

Jesus looked to the man formerly called Didymus and said, I still have work here. We will wait two days, then I shall go.

Matthew joined them in time to hear the words.

Master, the Jews of late in that place sought to stone thee. Why goest thou thither again?

Jesus turned saddened eyes to the two disciples and said, Lazarus is dead. I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless, let us go unto him.

Four days later the house was alerted to loud knocking on their door. Martha opened to see a young boy from the village.

It was a moment before he could catch his breath to speak, after running up the hill.

Yes, Nathaniel?

Jesus...He comes!

Martha’s shock melted as a smile filled her face. When?

Excitedly the boy pointed towards Bethany. He comes already! Do you not see the crowd of people?

Nathaniel went with Mary and Martha to join the surging multitude. A boisterous crowd increased in size with each passing moment. The trio could only move forward by walking on the edge of the road.

It is true! Mary exclaimed. I recognize Him!

Thank you, Nathaniel, for helping.

The boy started to run down the hill and shouted, I heard the Rabbi is coming to your house!

Even from this distance shouts and laughter could be heard rising from the many voices. Jesus, at the head of the crowd, moved at a steady pace undaunted by happy greeters. Mary chanced to look up and a dove hovered directly above the man leading the noisy group. The bird was pure white!

Moments later the sisters knelt before Jesus, each kissing an out-stretched hand.

The gaiety of the crowd became subdued out of respect for the family still in mourning.

You know our brother is dead?

He would be alive had you been here, Martha stated with firm conviction.

Jesus brought the grieving women to their feet and looked first to one, then the other. The multitude of people became still.

Thy brother shall rise again.

Lord, I know he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Martha said, Yes, Lord. I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

Mary fell at His feet crying and said, Lord, if thou had been here, my brother would not have died.

When Jesus lifted His face, the people saw He was troubled.

A voice cried from the crowd, See! How He loved Lazarus!

A whisper came from the crowd, This man opened the eyes of the blind, and cured the leper. Could He have the power to prevent Lazarus from dying?

Another voice said, Let us be patient and watch.

Jesus turned to the sisters.

Lazarus is not dead! In a firm voice Jesus said, He only sleeps!

Gasps rose from the astonished group at the words. One man said, Lazarus has already been buried four days in his tomb! I was present and helped to seal the entrance!

Jesus touched Mary and said, Show me where you have laid him.

Come, I will show you.

She was troubled when she saw Jesus wept as He walked.

Mary and Martha exchanged worried glances as they saw the sorrow in His eyes.

A solemn procession walked towards the burial place. Few among the group risked speaking except to voice skepticism.

Why do we participate in this folly? a man asked his wife. We both witnessed the burial! You even helped prepare his body!

I don’t know. They say this Jesus has done many miracles.

But Lazarus is dead, woman! You saw with your own eyes!

Turn back if it pleases you. I want to see.

Her husband shook his head in disgust, but continued to walk beside his determined wife.

The procession stopped at the rise of a small hill where the tomb could be seen below. The large stone seal had not been disturbed.

Roll away the stone! Jesus commanded.

There was silence and no man dared to move.

Master, our brother has been dead four days! Mary pleaded. He will—

Martha embraced her sister. We must have faith, Mary. Do not hinder Jesus.

Reluctantly a band of men moved down the hill, fear showing plainly on their face.

One man paused and said, I am not certain I am doing the proper thing! I was one who helped seal the stone.

Another man said, Many of these people present also attended the funeral of Lazarus. Are we to blaspheme our ancient traditions?

All heard Jesus say, Remove the stone!

Martha cautioned, Lord, by this time he will stink. He has been dead four days.

Jesus spoke to her loud enough for all to hear. Did I not say that if thou would believe, thou should see the glory of God?

The