The raising of Lazarus brings interesting reflection on fear and worry in Week 4 of the Lenten Family Soup Suppers series.

For Friday, March 27

(Download a printable copy of recipe and reflection questions here.) 

Minestrone Soup

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2-3 celery ribs, sliced

2 medium/large carrots, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-2 small/medium zucchini, sliced

1 10-oz. pkg. frozen spinach OR 2 C. fresh cabbage, shredded

1 qt. beef or vegetable broth

1 qt. water

1 14-oz. can diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 6-oz. can tomato paste

1 ½ tsp. salt, to taste

¼ tsp. black pepper

Pinch of red pepper flakes

Pinch of nutmeg

2 tsp. dried basil

1 15-oz. can beans (cannellini, great northern or kidney), drained & rinsed

1 ½ C. small pasta (shells, rotini, ditalini, etc.), uncooked

Sauté onion, celery & carrots in oil about 5 minutes. Add zucchini and cabbage (if using) and sauté another 3 minutes. Add liquids (including both tomato cans) and spices. Bring to boil and simmer about 10 minutes until vegetables are just a little on crunchy side. Add frozen spinach (if using) and return to boil. Add pasta and cook for the time given on package. Add beans just to heat through.

Top with parmesan cheese OR a dollop of pesto thinned slightly with olive oil.

Sunday Gospel

For March 29 | Full reading John 11: 1-45

When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him. . . Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.”

Reflections for the cook:

What am I worried about or afraid of right now? What is the worst that could happen in these situations? Jesus’ power can even call a person back from four-days-dead. How is my faith in him – in these specific situations?

Discussion for the dinner table:

What is something sad or disappointing that you have experienced recently? Jesus doesn’t stop all bad things from happening. Why do you think that is? Do you think Jesus sometimes weeps with us? What life-giving result or side-effect has Jesus been able to bring out of your hardship?

Copyright 2020 The Well. Written by Kristi Quinlan

Kristi Quinlan is new to Des Moines, moving to the area for her husband Tom's work. After earning her BA in education from the University of Dallas, Kristi spent several years studying and working as a Catholic missionary. She enjoyed five years as a parish Faith Formation Director in the suburbs of Chicago, until she landed a new "full-time job" at home keeping up with her two sons (3 and 1). Kristi is constantly seeking outlets for creativity whether that's in the kitchen, on canvas, or within the sphere of Catholic ministry.