In John 11, Lazarus, Mary & Martha were desperate for you. You were aware of their situation because Your Father was aware, and because a message came to you with the news, “Lord, your dear friend is very sick” (v 3).
Like I said, you already knew the situation.
You knew they were desperate,
but you weren’t.
They didn’t know how it would end,
but you did.
“Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death.”
Two whole days went by, but you hadn’t forgotten your friends. There is no information about what happened in those two days, but anyone who has dealt with a sick family member knows Mary & Martha were wringing their hands, pacing the floor, and begging for a miracle.
They were desperate.
They were weeping.
They felt helpless.
And then….they mourned.
By the time you reached them, he had been dead four days.
Four heartbreaking, sad, and dark days.
Martha was so desperate for your presence she ran to meet you before you made it to the house. “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.”
“But even now…”
Behold. Those were the words of hope.
In light of her situation and amidst the finality of death, she still hoped against all hope.
But Mary…Well, Mary was beside herself.
Once the one commended for her adoration of you, she was devastated by the events that transpired. “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.” She doesn’t have the hope Martha possessed. And neither do those weeping and wailing alongside her.
And that made you mad.
Then, arriving at the tomb, you wept. Those around you probably thought you were weeping for the loss of your friend, but I believe you wept because of their lack of faith and their hopelessness.
“Roll the stone aside,” you said. And when Martha’s faith faltered for a moment, you encouraged her, “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?”
If only we would believe, we too could see God’s glory.
Then, you prayed.
At your command, Lazarus came out, and – just as you said – Lazarus’s sickness did not end in death.
And so, we pause to give you thanks…
For your timing – though it may seem late – is always perfect…
And for circumstances that challenge our faith and reveal our hearts.
For knowing our circumstances even when we feel forgotten.
For giving us hope…
And encouraging us when our hope wavers.
For being compassionate…
And for being faithful even when we are faithless.
For showing up…
And for working miracles.
For always hearing our prayers…
And for interceding on our behalf.
For keeping your word…
And for doing the impossible so we will believe.
To you be the glory forever and ever.
Amen.