After waiting for two days, Jesus went to Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Jesus was in oneness with God, the father. This is what he wanted for his disciples, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and all followers. Let’s read John 11:9-10. Jesus began to speak to them about why He did what He did. Jesus knew that as long as they were doing the will of the Father, they were protected.
Jesus knew that Lazarus had died. He also knew it was the will of the Father to awaken him in due time. Read John 11:11-16. “He said this, and then He told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I’m on My way to wake him up.” Then the disciples said to Him, “Lord if he has fallen asleep, he will get well.” However, Jesus was speaking about his death, but they thought He was speaking about natural sleep. So Jesus then told them plainly, “Lazarus has died. I’m glad for you that I wasn’t there so that you may believe. But let’s go to him.” Then Thomas (called “Twin”) said to his fellow disciples, “Let’s go so that we may die with Him.”
Why would Jesus say that? What did he want for His disciples?
Jesus anticipated that His disciples were about to move to a new level of understanding of who He was and have a new level of trust in Him. The timing was perfect for this. They would see His power over death in a new light. Let’s read John 11: 21-22. Martha was the first to approach Jesus. How did she respond to Him? How would you respond if you were in Martha’s shoes? She responded with, “if only”. Martha believed that Jesus could heal Lazarus. Where did Jesus focus her attention? Go ahead and read verses 23-24 of chapter 11. What did Martha focus on? What did Jesus emphasize on according to verses 25-26. Jesus focused Martha’s attention on life, not on death.
Let’s take a look at Mary now. How did she respond to Jesus? How did Jesus respond to her? Read John 11: 32-42. She came weeping and responded that same as Martha, “if Only”. He responded by weeping with her. What did Jesus emphasize again? Why did Jesus pray aloud? What did he want the people to believe?
Through Lazarus’s death and then his being risen, the people gained a new vision of Jesus and the Father. They say His glory manifested. That day, many were persuaded to have a wholehearted heart of trust in Jesus and God the Father. Do you have a wholehearted heart full of trust in God?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your ways and your timing. I pray that when we don’t understand your timing or your ways, we will have faith and trust in you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
