“His friend,” Jesus referred to him (Jn 11:11).

That is exactly what Lazarus represented; it explains why Jesus approached him and why he brought him back to life. Lazarus was a dear friend of Jesus. The onlookers could perceive it in his expression; they remarked to each other, “Look how much he cared for him” (Jn 11:36). Beneath this miracle, as with all miracles, love and friendship are influential. Ultimately, that is the core message — the most fundamental message, at least — that Lazarus embodies us, or ought to embody us. As Lazarus experiences, so should we. We should be friends with Jesus just as he was. For that is what this Christianity matter entails: becoming a companion of God, discovering existence in that companionship, including everlasting life.

What Jesus accomplished for Lazarus is exactly what he promised. Previously in John, he stated, “Do not be astonished at this, for the time is approaching when all those in the graves will hear his voice and will emerge, those who have performed good actions to the resurrection of life, but those who have committed evil acts to the resurrection of judgment” (Jn 5:28-29).

He was, naturally, speaking broadly in this context; Lazarus, on the other hand, serves as a symbol, a wondrous indication of what is valid for all believers. The event involving Lazarus provided a preview of splendor. He stated this clearly: “This illness is not destined to result in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be exalted through it” (Jn 11:4). Similar to Cana, that miracle also acted as a sign, further disclosing his glory (cf. Jn 2:11). Through these signs, many chose to have faith; that was the purpose of these wonders. This is also one of the more inspiring aspects of the narrative, that God sometimes unveils his glory through the miracles he has performed in us, that God can influence others via us, through our remarkably transformed lives. Provided, of course, that we’re genuinely loyal friends of God.

Being a friend of God necessitates faith — correct faith; specifically, orthodoxy. This is the essence of Jesus’ exchange with Martha. “I am the resurrection and the life; anyone who puts their faith in me, even though they may die, will live, and everyone who exists and has faith in me will never perish. Do you accept this?” Jesus prompts her. Drawing out, similar to Peter previously, her complete and heartfelt declaration of faith, she replies, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world” (Jn 11:25-27).

The essence here is that true friendship with God necessitates genuine faith. There is no existence of simply cultural, non-believing Catholicism, nor can there be positivist or solely materialist Catholicism. Without belief in the Gospel, you cannot be considered a Catholic or a friend of God, and the glory that Jesus mentioned will never radiate from you; it will not transform or rescue you. I understand that this may seem harsh. However, we must keep in mind that this narrative unfolds at a tomb. The core theme and moral of the story is, in fact, life and death. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand what a relationship with God involves, as the implications are significant.

This is the type of faith the Church encourages us to rejuvenate during these closing days of Lent before we enter the week of Christ’s suffering. Ours is a fundamental yet contemporary faith; we continue to be captivated believers in love, friendship, and even wonders. Our faith should resemble that of the initial witnesses to Jesus’ miracles. Our faith is, of course, refined by spiritual insight. We understand, for instance, why Lazarus retained his burial garments, and why he didn’t, unlike Jesus, neatly arrange them and leave them behind in the tomb (cf. Jn 11:44; 20:6-7). Lazarus would require them once more; he would eventually face physical death, just as everyone does.

We understand that what Jesus offers us is everlasting life, heaven; we recognize that this is ultimately the focus of this narrative. Just prior to experiencing his own crucifixion, Jesus desires for his followers to possess authentic faith, genuine hope, and true love. He wishes for his disciples to perceive his Passion in a more profound way, a spiritual perspective. Jesus refers to his death as “glory” as well, which initially appears strange. However, this perspective changes if you’ve been perceiving the signs as they were intended to be understood, if you’ve been listening — with authentic faith. Moreover, all of this centers on friendship. Friends comprehend, friends maintain faith, and that’s all Jesus desires — friends who will accompany him to the cross, who will not waver in their faith.

So, what about you? As we are aware, the majority who witnessed Lazarus being raised fled during Jesus’ arrest. Only a handful managed to witness what transpired on the cross. But what regarding us? Will we reach Good Friday as faithful companions of Jesus? Will we observe his death with comprehension? Will we recognize in his death the unveiling of God and the achievement of our salvation? Will we perceive it as the everlasting fulfillment of our bond with him? These are the inquiries the Church provides us right before Holy Week. Questions only the true friends of God have the ability to respond to.

Father Joshua J. Whitfield is pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” (Ave Maria Press, $17.95) and other books.