Servant gives Light

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today are paired with a psalm wherein the Lord is praised as my light and my salvation. The psalmist trusts that the power of the Lord will triumph when foes are arranged against him. The picture painted by the Prophet Isaiah of the Servant of God who will give light to the nations is one of gentleness. Why would a response to this approach involve danger to the Servant? The Gospel from John continues the story of Jesus involvement with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. This “family” is viewed as unconventional by some who compare it to families more aligned with the culture of Jesus time. It appears to be practically headed by a woman. Lazarus is silent even though he is the recipient of great love and grace. This “family”, which Jesus loves deeply, are not inconspicuous and would be noticed in the community. In the previous chapter from John, Jesus calls Lazarus back to life after being four days in the tomb.This event raised the profile of Jesus and Lazarus among the religious authorities to the level where both may need to be killed to maintain control. The Light which is so  threatening to the authorities even today is, as noted in a blog by the United Methodist Women, is the ancient invitation from God to Love with all your heart, mind and soul. In this action, we are free from the control of religious and secular authority. Our light shines in the Love which propels us to action which for Nancy Shirley focuses, at this time, on forgiveness. Our living of the direction set by Isaiah to to open the eyes that are blind,to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,and from the prison those who sit in darkness (Isaiah 42:7) is likely to draw attention to our action from those motivated by power, privilege and pride who attempt to control people for selfish gain