John 11:39-40 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
The eleventh chapter of the Book of John narrates the account of a man named Lazarus, who was gravely ill and a close friend of Jesus. His sisters sent a message to Jesus, informing Him of Lazarus's condition, stating, "Your friend Lazarus, whom you love, is sick." In response, Jesus remarked that this illness would not lead to death but rather serve to glorify God and the Son of God. This declaration instilled hope in Lazarus's sisters, as they were aware of Jesus's ability to heal the sick. However, Jesus delayed His visit for two additional days, during which time Lazarus passed away, leaving his sisters in sorrow and disappointment. They had anticipated that Jesus would arrive in time to heal Lazarus and prevent his death, especially after His assurance that the sickness was not fatal. This situation raised doubts in their minds: Could they still trust Jesus? Had He deceived them? Was it truly the end?
Upon arriving at Lazarus's home, Jesus encountered his grieving sisters, both of whom expressed that had He been present, their brother would still be alive (John 11:21; 11:32). With Lazarus deceased, it seemed that hope was lost. However, it is essential to recognize that with Jesus, the story does not conclude in despair. While the sisters believed in the possibility of healing, they struggled to comprehend the notion of resurrection. Lazarus had been dead for four days, and the situation appeared hopeless, compounded by the unpleasant odor emanating from the tomb. Jesus instructed Martha to roll away the stone, but she hesitated, citing the decay of her brother's body as a reason for concern. The stone served as a tangible reminder to Martha of the finality of death. Nevertheless, she complied with Jesus's request, and in doing so, witnessed the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus.
The sisters had anticipated healing, yet Jesus provided something far more profound: the gift of resurrection. Reflect on your own life—what circumstances lead you to believe that all hope is lost? The sisters of Lazarus initially felt that their situation was hopeless, yet they chose to trust in Jesus's words and acted on their faith by removing the stone. Are you willing to place your faith in God for the resolution of your challenges? Trust in God, dispel any doubts, for He possesses the power to reveal His glory in your life. God is capable of delivering you from your struggles.
Amen.
Pierre F. Romelus
Source Divine Ministries
Email: info@sourcedivine.info
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