John 11:21-24

Today’s verses have a lot going on. While you might be very familiar with the story of Lazarus, let’s slow down and not rush over it. Jesus was friends with Martha, Mary, & Lazarus who were siblings. We find out in the beginning of John 11 that Mary is who poured the expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet. (That happens later.) Jesus was told that Lazarus was sick but His reply was Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. To our human minds, it might sound like He lied, right? Because Lazarus did die. BUT, we must see it says will not END in death. There is a difference if you think about it.

Martha has enough faith to know that even though Lazarus was dead, God/ Jesus could do anything. But she & Mary were both upset as anyone would be. They had sent for Jesus, but He didn't get there in time. (Or so they thought.) Death feels SO permanent doesn’t it? I mean, when you can't physically see or talk to your loved one anymore, it just hurts. Jesus had compassion and cried with them for a second. Even though He knew what He was about to do. As Christians, we have the hope and truth of Heaven. Our loved ones are there waiting for us. They aren’t “dead”, they just aren’t on earth anymore. That wouldn’t be possible without Jesus’ death, burial, & resurrection either!

I should have had us write verse 25! 🤦🏻‍♀️ Jesus tells Martha HE is the resurrection and the life! He also says, “Anyone who believes in Me will live, even after dying.” What a powerful God we love and serve!!