The Lord of Life and Death — 2016.03.10
He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come out!
John 11, 43
Jesus was a friend of the siblings Mary, Martha and Lazarus. He was often visiting with them. Lazarus became gravely ill and the sisters sent word to Him, Lord, Your friend is sick The disciples wanted to leave immediately, because they knew Jesus heals all disease!. But Jesus took his time, yet two days He stayed where he was. He said only that this disease will not lead to death, but to serve the glory of God. But Lazarus died. Finally, when he was dead four days Jesus came. He saw how the people and especially the sisters mourned Lazarus, and Martha reproached Him. If you had been here, my brother would not have died, Jesus himself was touched to the core, when He saw people crying. And again theaccusations: He healed the blind, would He not have been able to prevent the death here? – Jesus was again very shocked and went to the grave. He commanded: Take away the stone from the grave But Martha said: Lord, it stinks already, it’s already the fourth day, but Jesus told her: Did not I tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God ?! And heprayed: father, I know you hear me always. But because the crowd here is to also believe that you have sent me, hear me – and he cried with a loud voice: Lazarus, come forth. He came out of the grave, the hands and feet were still wrapped inbandages! but he came!!
Jesus wanted to set an example for us: Nothing is impossible. It may be that we ourselves are currently in a grave, already dead when alive. No hope, no joy, no light on the horizon. And yet, anyone who clings to Jesus, is already saved. In the Old Testament:You will not abandon my soul to Sheol; Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay. (Psalm 16, 10) This was meant first of all for Jesus, but it applies to everyone, in which Jesus is the Lord.
Nothing is impossible for Jesus! He will save, He is now the shining morning star in the night! He will not leave you to death!
Thank you, Jesus, You do not forget. Even if the middle of the night is around us, you’re there. You will bring a new morning, you’ll save from every affliction, and you will give new hope. With you is life!
Bible Reading Today: Isaiah 41, 1 – 20