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Questions on The Calling Forth of Lazarus

The image depicts, to the right, Lazarus wrapped in bandages as the coffin is taken away (as customary at the time). He is supported by some people. He is looking directly at Jesus, to the left of the painting, who has his right arm stretched out towards Lazarus.

Reproduced by kind permission of the Custos and community OFMConv, Sacro Convento, Assisi

  • What details does the artist include that help us know that Lazarus is being called out?
  • Look at each of the characters in the picture and their reactions to this unexpected “calling forth” by Jesus.   Describe the varied reactions. 
    Have you seen or experienced any of these reactions when someone is “called” by Jesus.
  • Lazarus was called out when nobody else expected this to happen.
    Can you think of examples of God calling (you or others) at totally unexpected times or in seemingly impossible ways?