Who Is Your Lazarus?

Who Is Your Lazarus?

Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” – John 11:40

 

Lazarus and his sisters, Martha and Mary, were close friends of Jesus. So when their brother was ill, the sisters sent for Him, saying, “The one you love is ill.” (John 11:3)

But Jesus didn’t drop everything and leave. He waited two days before journeying to see Lazarus. As He departed he told his disciples that Lazarus was asleep and it was time to wake him.

When Jesus arrived, Martha hurried out to meet him. Her anguished cry reflects on our own during times of pain, “If You were here, this wouldn’t have happened…”

This is when Jesus reminds her of his Divinity. He says He’s the Resurrection and the Life and asks her if she believes.

“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (John 11:27)

In times of pain—before the Lord has healed an illness or restored a relationship—it can be tempting to focus on what hasn’t happened or get trapped into an endless cycle of questions.

But Jesus encouraged Martha to focus on His identity, rather than her pain or her circumstances. Re-affirming what you believe about Jesus can be a powerful way to find peace, even in the middle of deep pain.

 

Jesus, I believe You are the Messiah. You came into the world to rescue and redeem me. I don’t know why it seems that You haven’t moved in my situation but I’m choosing to trust in Your character. You are good and faithful always. Amen.