John 11 Part 1

John 11 opens with the news of Lazarus's illness, a man deeply cherished by Jesus. Mary and Martha, their hearts heavy with grief, plead with Jesus, "Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick." Their plea implies a desperate hope and faith for his healing. Yet, Jesus' response is enigmatic: "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God." Yet, Jesus intentionally delayed the trip, allowing Lazarus to succumb to his illness in death. Thus, this perplexing declaration challenges Mary and Martha's understanding of finality, God’s purpose, and power. Meanwhile, the disciples fear for their master's safety (and ultimately their own) as Jesus announces that they will return to Jerusalem.

This narrative serves as a potent reminder that true discipleship often demands a leap of faith, a willingness to walk into the unknown, even when fear whispers caution. Jesus, in His divine wisdom, calls us to embrace the risk, to trust in His unwavering presence even in the face of danger. For in the crucible of suffering, in the depths of our deepest pain, God is at work, weaving a tapestry of grace and redemption. Just as He brought life from the tomb of Lazarus, He can transform our deepest sorrows into a testament to His glory, a beacon of hope shining through the darkest of nights.