Raising Lazarus

 Raising Lazarus by A.J. Gretz

Scripture Reading: John 11:38-44

"Jesus called in a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth and the dead man came out of his grave." John 11:43-44

Scholars describe the raising of Lazarus as the seventh and final sign or miracle in the book of John, and—as we can see—Jesus has saved the best for last.

Even though Lazarus had been dead for several days, Jesus pulled him back from death’s grasp and restored him to life. All it took was Jesus’ command when the voice that spoke creation into existence called Lazarus out of the darkness of death and into the light of life again.

In our skeptical, post­modern age, this may seem like a ­story that’s been embellished by John to help sell people on the idea of following Jesus. But this miraculous story is real, as are the other signs in the book of John. It is meant to point to a deeper truth about Jesus and his ministry.

Lazarus’ resurrection points us to the hope of resurrection and new life that we have in Christ. What Jesus did for Lazarus is also a promise for all who believe.

In Jesus there is no ene­my of God—not even death itself—that can defeat us. If we are in Christ, we will have eternal life and victory over death, no matter what we face today.

When we have times in which we are struggling, anxious, or afraid, we can look to Jesus and remember his promises of life forever -- of life with him eternally. Nothing is too big, and no problem is too difficult for Jesus to overcome. Not even death itself.

Father, when things are difficult and I feel discouraged, give me hope. Help me to trust in your power to bring me into life forever with you. Amen.