Day 102: The Death of Lazarus (2026)

On Day 102 of 'The Bible in a Year' podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz explores pivotal passages from John chapters 10–12 and Proverbs 6:1–5. The episode centers on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His intimate relationship with His followers, His divine authority, and His mission to bring salvation to all nations. The powerful narrative of Lazarus’ death and resurrection is highlighted as a profound demonstration of Jesus’ humanity—His tears reveal His deep empathy—yet also His divine power to conquer death. Fr. Mike underscores that Jesus’ identity demands a decisive response: He is either God or a deceiver, leaving no neutral ground. The episode also examines the growing opposition from religious leaders, culminating in their plot to kill Jesus, and the foreshadowing of His Passion. The anointing of Jesus by Mary and the arrival of Greeks seeking Him signal the widening scope of His mission. The reflection closes with a call to personal discipleship: if Jesus is who He says He is, then we must respond by surrendering our lives to Him. The tone is reverent, urgent, and deeply pastoral, inviting listeners to walk with Jesus through His final days before the Passion. Key takeaways include: 1) Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows and protects His sheep; 2) His tears at Lazarus’ tomb reveal His deep compassion and solidarity with human suffering; 3) Jesus has the power to bring life even in the face of absolute death; 4) His identity demands a radical response—either full surrender or rejection; 5) The mission of salvation extends to all nations, fulfilling God’s covenant with Abraham; 6) The Church is the visible sign of one flock under one shepherd; 7) True discipleship means following Jesus even to the cross; 8) The hour of Jesus’ glorification is the hour of His death and resurrection, which draws all people to Him.