[:en]The Death of Lazarus (vs. 1-16)
When Jesus was preaching in villages beyond the Jordan, He received the news of Lazarus’ sickness. Jesus did not go immediately but waited for 2 more days before returning to Judea. He knew that Lazarus will be dead upon his arrival, but he purposely did it to show them a great miracle for God’s glory.
When you need help, ask assistance from the Lord. He can make your trials bring glory to God. See your problem as an opportunity to honor Him. Do not grumble, complain or blame God. Instead, trust Him to do great things for you.
Jesus loved this family (Martha, Mary and Lazarus). He knew their pain and sorrow but He did not respond immediately because God has His own timing. His delay had a specific purpose. So when you have unanswered prayers, do not think that He is not responding. He will meet your needs according to His perfect schedule and purpose. Wait patiently for His timing.
Jesus Comforts the Sisters (vs. 17-37)
Jesus said: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. (v. 26) Jesus can heal Lazarus without having to die. But Lazarus died so that Jesus’ power over death can be manifested. He not only raised Himself from the deaad (10:18), but He has the power to raise others. That is a crucial belief of Christian faith.
Thomas was branded as “the doubter” because he doubted Jesus’ resurrection. But here, he demonstrated courage. The disciples knew the dangers of going with Jesus to Jerusalem and tried to talk Him out of it. But Thomas said: “Let us also go, that we may die with Him” (v. 16)
There are unknown dangers in doing god’s work. Being a disciple of Christ demands a high cost. Are you still willing to serve Him?
When Jesus arrived, He saw the weeping and wailing. He also wept because He was moved with compassion, indignation and sorrow. When you are in grief, remember that Jesus never leaves you nor forsake you. He empathizes with what you are experiencing.
Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead (vs. 38-44)
Jesus came to the tomb and told them to take away the stone (v. 39). Then He prayed: “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I know that you always hear me but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me” (v. 42). then He called in a loud voice: “Lazarus, come out! Lazarus came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strip of linen and a cloth around his face (v. 44)
The Plot to Kill Jesus (vs. 45-57)
May Jews saw what Jesus did and put their faith in Him. But the Pharisees and the chief priests refused to believe. They were afraid that His miracle might create disturbance and cause Rome’s displeasure. So they plotted to murder Him.
Summary:
- Tell all your needs to Jesus. Ask help from Him. He is always available when you call upon His name.
- Consider your trials a means to strengthen your faith and reveal God’s glory
- In your pain and grief, remember that Jesus cares enough to weep with you in your sorrow.
- If you have unanswered prayer, wait patiently for His time. His delay always has a purpose.
- Jesus has triumphed over death. He is the resurrection and the life.
- Be courageous when you are going God’s work. Your may face objections, encounter criticism, and experience discouragement. Be like Thomas, who was willing to die with Jesus.
[:]