Healing in the WordNäide

Life has a way of making us feel trapped. Sometimes, it’s our own mistakes that build walls around us. Other times, pain, loss, or circumstances beyond our control seem to place an immovable stone between us and hope. The story of Lazarus reminds us of a powerful truth: no stone, no barrier, no grave can keep Jesus from reaching us.

Lazarus had been dead for four days. His body lay in a tomb, sealed behind a heavy stone. His family had mourned, and in their minds, it was over. When Jesus arrived, Martha voiced the reality of the situation: “But, Lord… by this time there is a bad odor” (John 11:39). Isn’t that how we often think? We believe our situation is too far gone, too broken, too messy for Jesus to step in. But Jesus is not limited by what we see or what we think is possible.

“Take away the stone,” Jesus commanded. Imagine the moment of hesitation. Removing the stone would expose death, decay, and the undeniable reality of loss. Yet, when they obeyed, something miraculous happened. Jesus spoke, calling Lazarus by name, and death had no choice but to let him go. The same voice that spoke creation into being now spoke life into a man who had been bound by death. Lazarus came out, still wrapped in grave clothes, and Jesus instructed those around him, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go” (John 11:44).

This story is not just about Lazarus—it’s about us. What stones have you placed in front of your heart? Is it past sin, shame, fear, or doubt? Do you believe that something in your life is too dead for Jesus to revive? The good news is that no barrier is too great for Him. The stone was not an obstacle for Jesus; it was merely something that needed to be moved so that His power could be fully displayed.

Jesus is calling your name today. He is not intimidated by the depth of your pain or the weight of your circumstances. He does not shy away from what others deem hopeless. Just as He called Lazarus from the grave, He is calling you to step into life, freedom, and renewed faith. The grave clothes of your past, your failures, and your fears no longer define you. He commands them to be removed, so you can walk in His victory.

Respond to God’s word:

Jesus is calling you to step forward in faith. Do not let the weight of your past or the barriers in your mind hold you back. Surrender your burdens to Him today. Pray, trust, and take action—whether it’s seeking forgiveness, letting go of fear, or stepping into the calling God has for you. Move the stone and watch how He brings new life where you thought all hope was lost.

Prayer:

Jesus, I thank You that no stone is too heavy or no barrier too great to keep You from reaching me. Help me to trust You, even when my situation seems hopeless. Remove the stones of doubt, fear, and despair in my life. Call me into Your light, and help me walk in the freedom You have given me. In Jesus name, Amen.