“Unbind him, and let him go.” I’m always amazed when I see an illusionist that can get out of tight, often dangerous situations. Whether they are tied up with ropes or handcuffs or straitjackets, they come out at the end of the illusion, unscathed and free of their fetters. In yesterday’s Gospel, we have the familiar story of Lazarus raised from the dead, called forth from the dark, dank, coldness of the grave to the light of new life in Christ. But just because he is alive, doesn’t mean that he can take hold the life that is in store for him. First, he must be unbound from the cloths that now restrain him. Likewise, just because we are alive, does not mean we are living the life that Jesus has in mind for us. First, we must allow ourselves to be unbound by God’s love and forgiveness and be wrapped instead in his mercy and grace. When we are unable to shake off the restraints of our “tomb”, we find that we cannot live fully into the new life that Jesus calls us to. This week, may you hear clearly the call from the savior of the world; Come out!  And LIVE!