More Than Just a Story - the Book of JohnNäide

When I read through these verses, the main themes that I am drawn to are God’s timing and His tremendous love for us.

“But when Jesus heard about it, he said, ‘Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.’ So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, he stayed where he was for the next two days” (John 11:4-6).

First off, I have to wonder if the disciples had the same reaction I imagine most people do when we ask Jesus for help: Why are you taking so long to answer my prayer? Did you get my message? I’m immediately reminded of Isaiah 55:8-9:

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”

And also Proverbs 3:5-6:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

In this moment, Jesus didn’t take the extra two days because He didn’t care about Lazarus. He stayed so that others might see and believe that He is the one who brings dead things back to life. Jesus brings resurrection and new life to the things that seem dead in our lives so that we may be made new through Him.

“So he told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead. And for your sakes, I’m glad I wasn’t there, for now you will really believe. Come, let’s go see him’” (John 11:14-15).

Secondly, this passage is another reminder of just how much Jesus loves us. Before Jesus gave the ultimate sacrifice so we could have eternal life through Him, He had already faced great danger. Just before this moment, Jesus was nearly stoned to death in Judea. At the end of John chapter 8, He hid from the Pharisees at the temple when they tried to stone Him to. That’s why the disciples objected to Jesus wanting to go see Lazarus.

“Rabbi,” they said, “only a few days ago the people of Judea were trying to stone you. Are you going there again?” (John 11:8).

Yet, Jesus was willing to walk straight into danger for the sake of His friend—and for us. He is always willing to go to battle with us when we are in need. He will never leave us nor forsake us.

“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

Reflection

• Have there been times when you felt like God didn’t hear your prayer?
• Have you ever felt frustrated, thinking that God should have acted faster?
• Be reminded that God may have a bigger purpose or plan to show you just how much He loves you. I know it’s easier said than done, but God has such good plans for you if you trust in Him.

Reflection Songs: While I’m Waiting by John Waller and Good Plans by Red Rocks Worship.