“In the face of death, Jesus speaks life.”
By Justin M. David
The scripture says: And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth (John 11:43).
Have you ever felt like a situation was beyond hope?
In the story of Lazarus, we see Jesus confront what seems like the ultimate end—death itself. Lazarus, a beloved friend of Jesus, falls seriously ill, and despite urgent pleas from his sisters, Mary and Martha, Jesus delays His arrival. By the time Jesus reaches Bethany, Lazarus has been dead for four days. This delay, however, is not neglect but a divine setup to display God’s glory.
How often do we see delays as denials?
When Jesus finally arrives, He is deeply moved by the grief of His friends. He weeps with them, showing His deep compassion and empathy. How comforting it is to know that Jesus understands our sorrows and weeps with us in our pain.
Have you experienced moments where you felt Jesus’ empathy in your struggles?
At the tomb, Jesus commands the stone to be rolled away, despite the concerns about the smell of death. He prays to the Father, demonstrating His reliance on God’s power. With a loud voice, Jesus calls out, “Lazarus, come forth!” And Lazarus emerges, alive and restored. This miracle is a profound demonstration of Jesus’ power over death and a foreshadowing of His own resurrection.
Do you believe that Jesus can bring life to the dead areas of your life?
This story teaches us to trust in God’s timing and power, even when situations seem hopeless. It reminds us that Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and in Him, our darkest moments can become testimonies of God’s glory.
How can you trust Jesus with the “dead” areas of your life today?