John 11:25-27

The narrative of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead captivates our attention, holding within it peculiar details that beckon us to explore its depths. Let's journey into the heart of this story and unravel its profound lessons.

Lazarus, a familiar name to many, lay gravely ill in the town of Bethany, where his sisters, Mary and Martha, resided. Filled with hope, they sought Jesus, urgently informing Him of Lazarus' dire condition, anticipating a miraculous intervention to avert his impending death.

However, a strange turn of events unfolds. Upon hearing the news, Jesus responds with an unexpected declaration: "This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." A seemingly enigmatic response, considering Jesus is aware of Lazarus's imminent demise. It's as though Jesus, with a broader perspective, acknowledges the bigger picture of what's actually happening.

As Lazarus succumbs to death, Jesus deliberately lingers for two more days before deciding to go to him. The unconventional timing prompts Jesus to declare, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him," emphasizing that Lazarus's death will serve to showcase Jesus as the "resurrection and the life."

The familiar resurrection unfolds, demonstrating Jesus's power to not only revive the physically dead but also to bring spiritual life to the spiritually dead. It becomes a vivid picture of the gospel story.

Yet, within this narrative lies a profound exploration of suffering. Jesus, with the ability to heal Lazarus, intentionally allows him to die. In a world without modern comforts, Lazarus likely endured significant suffering. Moreover, those who loved him faced the agonizing sting of loss.

What can we glean from this? We must recognize that God permits suffering in this world, even when He possesses the power to prevent it. Whether by His permissive or determinative will, suffering finds its way into our lives.

Pause for a moment and reflect on your own life. How have you navigated or are currently navigating through suffering? Remember, suffering is not devoid of purpose. Romans 3:3-5 beautifully articulates that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope.

Crucially, we discover that Jesus, the Son of God, not only identifies with but also has compassion for those who suffer. His tears over Lazarus' death unveil the depth of His humanity. Moreover, this is the same Jesus who willingly endured the cross, ensuring that the worst of all suffering fell upon Himself, making our earthly suffering momentary.

This distinction sets Christianity apart from other religions. In Christianity, we find a God who draws near, entering our suffering and ensuring our safe passage through it. Jesus identifies and sympathizes with us in all situations, offering redemption for our hurts and turning them into instruments of His glory.

As we witness Lazarus emerging from the tomb, Jesus's prayer in verse 42 reveals the overarching purpose: "I did this on account of the people standing around so that they might see this miracle and believe." The story of Lazarus was always about God receiving glory and others finding belief through witnessing the miraculous.

Today, I implore you to recognize that your suffering holds meaning. God can and will use it to bring glory to Himself, fortify your faith, and inspire belief in others through your unwavering trust in Him.

Dear fellow believer, remember this: suffering is not meaningless. It is momentary, and the worst of all suffering fell on Jesus. He walks with you through your suffering, close and compassionate. He is the good shepherd leading you through the darkness, comforting you like a parent consoles a frightened child.

In John 10, Jesus promised to "give life and give it abundantly." In John 11, He substantiated that promise: Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. Trust in Him today!

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