The Book Of John | The 7 "Signs" And The 7 "I AM's" Of JesusSýnishorn

“Raising of Lazarus”

“…then he went up and lay on the child, putting his mouth on his mouth, his eyes on his eyes, and his hands on his hands. And as he stretched himself upon him, the flesh of the child became warm.”

This is the close encounter that Elisha had with a child that was dead and then brought to life. The language used in this verse is intimate, passionate, and love-stricken language. Elisha not only healed this child, but he hurt for the child’s death. Death is a tragic sadness, and Elisha knew its pains.

Jesus, Mary and her sister Martha knew the pains of death as well. Martha’s grief over Lazarus’ death caused her to run to Jesus in frustration, deeply questioning Jesus’ goodness in not coming sooner. Jesus’ response to her is to kindly rebuke her lack of belief in his truth and abilities and affirm to her that he is “the resurrection and the life.” Mary was drawn to tears over Larzurus’ death and could only sit weeping. Jesus’ response to her is to kindly join her in weeping.

This is one of the clearest, most passionate, and love-striken stories in the New Testament. It shows Jesus’ love for his people from a human standpoint, and his hatred toward the perils of death from a deity’s standpoint. Jesus joins in the grief of his people, yet he enters like a warrior, girded with the belt of truth. Though he weeps, he affirms to Martha that his power is still supreme over death. He not only stops to comfort his people, but also to remind them of his resurrection power that is beyond what we call “natural.”

Consider Jesus' demonstration of power here, not only in the healing, but in the weeping. Consider how he loves Mary and Martha. In the same situation, one needed a tender rebuke and reminder, and the other needed someone to cry with them. Consider how Jesus pastors his people.

He states that he is the resurrection and the life, but this is a statement far richer than what first meets the eye. 

Arise -

For more poetry, images, writings, music, and a children’s book that will enrich your study of the Gospel of John go to http://www.gardencityproject.com/john .