Prepare the Way: A 21-Day Reading Plan Through John by Justeina BrownleeSýnishorn

Day 11: If Only

Read John 11

In John 11, Martha and Mary grapple with the death of their brother, Lazarus. Both sisters express the same sorrowful words to Jesus: “If only you had been here, my brother would not have died.” This phrase reveals their deep faith in Jesus’ Power and their pain over His apparent delay.

They had called for Jesus when Lazarus was sick, hoping He would heal him. But Jesus delayed His arrival, and by the time He came, Lazarus had been dead for four days. Their hearts were filled with “if only” thoughts—if only Jesus had come sooner, this tragedy could have been avoided.

We often face similar moments, wondering why God didn’t step in earlier to prevent pain or loss. We ask, “If only God had been here, maybe the outcome would have been different.”

Yet, Jesus shows us in this story that even when it seems too late, He is still working. After hearing their cries, Jesus weeps with them, sharing their grief. Then, in a miraculous act, He calls Lazarus out of the tomb, showing that His Power extends beyond the grave.

This miracle reminds us that God’s Timing and Ways are often beyond our understanding. Even in our “if only” moments, God is working for His Glory and our good. Instead of being stuck in disappointment, we can trust that He is still able to bring life and hope into the most hopeless situations.

Reflection Questions:

1. Are there “if only” situations in your life where you feel disappointed by God's Timing? How can you bring those to Him today?
2. How does Jesus’ response to Martha and Mary’s grief encourage you to trust Him, even when it seems too late?