Today, we’re exploring one of the most powerful and moving stories in the Bible: The Raising of Lazarus from the dead, as told in John 11:1-44. So grab a comfortable seat, maybe a cup of coffee, and let’s journey together into this profound narrative.
Our story begins with a message sent to Jesus: Lazarus is sick. Yet, Jesus doesn’t rush to his side. Instead, He speaks of Lazarus’s sickness not ending in death but for God’s glory. When Jesus finally decides to visit Lazarus, Lazarus has been in the tomb for four days. The scene is one of mourning, with Martha and Mary expressing their grief to Jesus. But Jesus responds to their sorrow with a promise, “Your brother will rise again.”
What unfolds is nothing short of miraculous. Jesus, deeply moved, commands the stone to be rolled away from Lazarus’s tomb and calls him out. And Lazarus comes out, alive. This moment is not just about the miracle but about Jesus revealing His power over death and His role as the resurrection and the life.
So, what does this mean for us today? Well, it’s a vivid reminder that no situation, no matter how dire, is beyond God’s power. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in God’s timing, even when it doesn’t align with our expectations. It’s about hope in the face of despair and life triumphing over death.
And it’s about presence. Jesus showed up for Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. He shared in their sorrow before transforming it into joy. It’s a call for us to be present with those who are struggling, offering them hope and pointing them towards the light, even in the darkest times.
Now, I’d like to offer you a reflective journal prompt: Think about a time when you felt lost in despair. How did hope find its way back to you? Reflect on the moments or people that became your ‘Jesus’ in those times, offering light in your darkness.
Let’s close our time together with a short prayer. Feel free to echo this prayer in your heart or out loud.
“Dear Lord, thank You for the story of Lazarus, which reminds us of Your power to bring life into the most hopeless of situations. Help us to trust in Your timing and to believe in the resurrection power at work within our own lives. Teach us to be a source of comfort and hope to those around us, just as You are for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
I hope this story and our reflection together have brought some light to your day. Remember, no matter how dark the tomb, there’s always hope for a resurrection.
Until next time, keep seeking, keep wondering, and keep the faith.
Be Blessed
