John_11

Today as I read i am reminded of John's original audience - Christ-followers experiencing persecution.  John continues the theme that in this world you will experience trouble but greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.  John makes it clear that Jesus loved Mary, Martha and Lazarus, yet these beloved three still experience the sting of death.  And Jesus' seeming lack of action on their behalf had a greater plan to it, not just for Mary and Martha but for His disciples and the people who would witness the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead.  

 

As I read I wondered what would be the response of the disciples and the sisters if Jesus had not raised Lazarus from the dead?  Would they still believe in Him as the Son of God?   Would it have changed anything?  John gives a slight hint to it I think that we should consider that Jesus is still in control, powerful, loving and caring even if the circumstances of our life does not go the way we want it to go.  The Holy Spirit whispered to me as I was reading today, "Would Jesus still be Lord of your life even if life didn't turn out the way you wanted it to?"  and today I must make that commitment again that He is trustworthy and I can depend on Him even if I find myself in the midst of suffering and pain.  It really is a win-win situation if we continue to put our trust in Him and let Him work His will according to His purposes for our life.

 

Sorry about the rambling but I guess the bottom line is..."Lord I trust you in spite of the circumstances I face.  I trust you even if you don't show up on my time table or do things the way I think you should.  I believe you when you say...

I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.