Even Now? (John 11:1-44) FAITH

So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days. – John 11:6

Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE

This probably was the most remarkable miracle Jesus performed. “There is no parallel whatsoever for the raising of a man who had been dead for four days and whose body had begun to putrefy.” (Barclay)

Jesus had a close relationship with and loved the family of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. When Lazarus was sick it was only natural for Mary and Martha to bring their need to Jesus. They send word for Him saying, Lord the one you love is sick. It was enough to simply tell Jesus what the problem was. 

But Jesus responds with a delay. 

Jesus stayed back for two more days. The delay was probably mystifying to the disciples and agonizing to Mary and Martha. Jesus deliberately waited to bring Lazarus back from the dead until he had been in the tomb for four days. He knew the Jewish superstition of that day that said a soul stayed near the grave for three days, hoping to return to the body. It was accepted that after four days there was absolutely no hope of resuscitation. 

Jesus demonstrates that He does things according to the timing and will of God, not man. He also reminds us that His delays are not denials, but would bring greater glory to God. 

Martha was not confident that Jesus would raise her brother, but she says she would still trust Jesus despite the disappointment. She believed that even now God would answer Him (v22). That was a remarkable demonstration of faith. Do you have this ‘even now’ faith to trust God even when your situation may seem too far gone?

Lord, give me the faith to trust even when things are seemingly impossible, I pray.

Extended Reading – John 11

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