John 11
The account of the raising of Lazarus is
a favorite passage for many Christians. Here we have the powerful promise that
Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and that all who believe in Him will
never die. We get to see Jesus’ compassion and emotion as He weeps at His
friend’s tomb. We behold His power as He raises Lazarus.
This passage is so familiar it is
tempting to move through it quickly, but we might do well to go back through it
slowly and imagine ourselves in the story. Imagine being one of the disciples –
dismayed that the Teacher is headed back toward danger and death. Imagine being
one of the sisters – grieving, feeling betrayed, wondering why Jesus didn’t get
there to heal their brother. Imagine being in the crowd – wondering, “If He can
give sight to the blind, couldn’t He heal Lazarus?” Imagine being Lazarus –
waking up in a tomb, wrapped like mummy, hobbling out of the cave.
None of these people knew what was to
come. We take for granted that Lazarus would be raised because we’ve heard the
story over and over again. For those who experienced this miracle, they were
simply living their lives. They didn’t know. They didn’t understand what was
about to happen. But when it did happen, they were in awe!
We too go through life moving through a
variety of situations. Sometimes we look at our position and see it as pretty
hopeless, and we press on convinced that this is the end. Perhaps we find
ourselves grieving and wondering how we lost a loved one, a relationship was
broken, or such sadness could come upon us. Where is God? Maybe we wonder if
God is able, willing, or even loving. It could be that we feel dead,
emotionally numb, wrapped up in guilt, sorrow, pain, etc.
When you find yourselves in those circumstances
look at what Jesus said to Lazarus. “Come out!” Know that Jesus will say that
to you on the last day. He will call you out of your grave, and you will live
forever in His glory. He Himself rested in the grave and came out again to give
you everlasting life. But remember, the disciples, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and
the crowd had no idea what was to come. They just walked by faith through it
all. But when Jesus brought it about, it was glorious!
Lord Jesus, help me walk by faith knowing
you will see me through whatever situation I am in. Amen.
Comments