03/20/2026
A Message from Our Pastor, Armel Crocker
Sisters and Brothers,
This week I have been reflecting on Gospel of John 11:1–45, the powerful story of the raising of Lazarus by Jesus Christ. It is one of the most moving passages in scripture because it shows both the deep compassion of Jesus and the life-giving power of God.
Many of us remember this story for the miracle itself. Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days when Jesus arrived. His sisters, Mary and Martha, were grieving, and their community had gathered around them in sorrow. In the midst of this heartbreak we encounter one of the shortest and most profound verses in the Bible: “Jesus wept.”
Those two words remind us that our Lord understands human grief. God does not stand far away from our suffering. God enters into it with us. When we experience loss, uncertainty, illness, or sorrow, we are not alone. Christ stands with us in the valley.
Yet the story does not end in grief. Jesus calls out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” And Lazarus walks out of the tomb still wrapped in grave clothes. Then Jesus says to those standing nearby, “Unbind him, and let him go.”
There is an important lesson here for the church today. Resurrection is not only something Jesus does alone; the community is invited to participate. The people around Lazarus are called to remove the grave clothes so he can fully live again. In the same way, the Body of Christ is called to help unbind one another—from fear, isolation, injustice, grief, and despair.
Our world, our nation, and even our own lives sometimes feel like places where heavy stones have been rolled across the entrance of hope. We see division, violence, and suffering around us. At times it can feel overwhelming. Yet this story reminds us that God’s voice still calls life out of places that seem sealed in death.
Jesus says to Martha in this passage, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Resurrection is not only a promise for the future, it is a reality that begins now whenever Christ brings healing, restoration, and new beginnings.
As followers of Christ, we are called to listen for that voice and to help roll away the stones that keep people from life. When we offer compassion, pursue justice, and walk alongside those who are hurting, we participate in God’s ongoing work of resurrection.
Even today, Christ is still calling people out of their tombs.
And the church is still called to help unbind them.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Armel
