Lazarus comes out of the tomb but he is still bound “hand and foot with burial bands.” St. Augustine says that this symbolizes the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He says that no one can confess their sins without being moved first by God’s call, namely, His grace. He calls us when we are still “bound, hand and foot” in our sinfulness. This is how much God loves us. When Jesus says, “Untie him” St. Augustine says this symbolizes God’s great mercy releasing us from the bondage of sin. We have 15 days until Easter. Let us respond to God’s grace and make a good confession before we celebrate the glorious Resurrection of His Son.