Will You Seek Jesus?
The story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus in John 11 is a vivid reminder of God’s power and presence, even in our darkest moments. This narrative challenges us to take our crises to Jesus, the “I Am,” and find hope when everything seems lost.
Faith Amid Crisis: A Testimony of Trust
In John 11:21-26, Martha expresses both her grief and faith when she says to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Her words encapsulate a truth that many believers wrestle with during trials: the coexistence of disappointment and faith. Yet, her next statement, “But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You,” shows an incredible blend of emotion and theology. It’s a testament to the grounding power of knowing who God is, even when life feels chaotic.
In our crises, we often question, “Why, God?” But Jesus’ response to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life,” redirects her focus from her pain to His promise. This is a call for us, too, to anchor our emotions in the truth of God’s Word.
Delays and Divine Purpose
One of the most challenging aspects of the Lazarus story is Jesus’ intentional delay. Though Jesus was only two miles away, He waited two days before going to Bethany. By the time He arrived, Lazarus had been in the grave for four days. This delay wasn’t neglect—it was purpose. Jesus used this moment to teach an eternal lesson: His timing is always aligned with a greater purpose.
When Jesus finally arrived, He was met with the sorrow of Mary and Martha. Both expressed their faith mixed with sorrow, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Yet, Jesus didn’t just perform a miracle; He engaged with their pain. He wept (John 11:35), showing His deep compassion and connection to human suffering. His actions remind us that even when God’s timing feels delayed, He is never absent.
Faith in Action: Taking It to Jesus
Mary and Martha’s decision to send word to Jesus about their brother’s illness illustrates an important principle: in times of crisis, take it to Jesus. Prayer is the believer’s lifeline, a way of “sending word” to the One who holds all power. Even when answers seem delayed, prayer keeps us connected to God’s heart and promises.
When Jesus arrived at Lazarus’ tomb, He instructed the people to remove the stone. Martha hesitated, pointing out the odour of death after four days. Yet, Jesus persisted, demonstrating that faith often requires action. Faith isn’t passive; it involves releasing control and trusting God to work, even when the situation seems beyond hope.
"Even Now" Faith
One of the most powerful moments in John 11 is Martha’s statement: “Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” This “even now” faith is what transforms crises into testimonies. It’s the belief that God can intervene, regardless of how impossible the situation seems.
Do you have a “Lazarus” in your life—a situation that seems dead and hopeless? Will you seek Jesus? Just as He called Lazarus out of the tomb, He can bring life to the dead things in our life. But this requires releasing control and trusting Him fully.
Will You Seek Jesus?
The story of Lazarus is a reminder that no situation is too far gone for Jesus. His delay was not a denial; it was an opportunity to reveal His glory. In the same way, our trials can become platforms for God’s power to be displayed.
Let us remember His words: “I am the resurrection and the life.” The resurrection is not just an event; it is a person. Dead things don’t stay dead when the resurrection walks into the room.
Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good; He came to make dead people alive. Will you seek Him? Whether in crisis or celebration, Jesus is the answer to every need. Take your burdens to Him, release them in faith, and witness the power of the “I Am” in your life.