John 11:1-35

The prelude to this story (vv1-16) sets the scene for what is to come. It tells us something about this family; Mary, Martha and Lazarus, and that Jesus is very fond of them. But clearly Jesus knows that there is more to this event than just Lazarus’ healing. Jesus will only do what he sees his Father doing. So he waits, knowing that Lazarus has died, but also that a greater miracle is about to take place. It is 2 days walk to the family’s home in Judea, so even if he left immediately Lazarus would still have been dead by the time Jesus arrived. This will become important later in the story. The risk in going back to Judea is evidenced by the disciples questioning his decision and Thomas’ is pessimism, but Jesus will no allow fear to stop him doing his Father’s will.

Vv17-27 clearly Martha had faith, when they asked for Jesus help, that he would have healed her brother, but now she declares her faith that Jesus can turn even this sad event around (v 22). Her response draws from Jesus the next ‘I am’ statement. He is the resurrection and the life. He asks Martha if she believes this and she declares her faith that he is the Messiah.

Vv 28-35 Mary has the same initial response as Martha believing Jesus could have done something, and expressing both her faith and her despair together. Then we see this very human response of Jesus to the sorrow of those around him. He weeps, but also there is in him a deep anger. What exactly he was angry at is not clear. For myself, I think it was at the distress that sin, sickness and death bring into the world.

Response: Choose a word, phrase, idea or action that strikes you as significant at this moment in your life and spend a few minutes reflecting on it.