(Read John 11 First)
“Lord, he whom you love is ill.” -John 11:3
The sisters were desperate. Their brother was fading fast. No hope. They had one shot to possibly sway Jesus into acting on his behalf. If it were you and I, perhaps we recite a few verses, maybe remind him of our church attendance and charitable work. “We’re good people Jesus”. Yet the sisters, knowing Jesus like few else, remind him of his motivation when dealing with his children – love. In their panic they recall the heart of God for Lazarus. “He whom you LOVE is ill”.
What sort of God is this?
His action has little to do with us, it is exclusively a reaction from his character which is shaped by love. He loves Lazarus, therefore he provides. Therefore, we can confidently assume he will act on our behalf, for his love is a fierce constant. Jesus, who is ever the teacher, reiterates all of this with another “I am” statement:
“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (v.25)
Make no mistake, Christ has the final word on both death and life. What appears dead today is one divine movement away from rebirth. Nothing is too far gone. Nothing is hopeless. Nothing is wasted. He loves, and from this love comes great life.
Pray: Thank you Lord for not being a God motivated by condemnation. You are not a distant killjoy but a loving God whose heart breaks for his kids. May we too be motivated by love when dealing with people today. When tested, help us to recall the depth of your love for us. Humble and encourage us today Father. We love because you have loved first. Thank you for breathing life into the most impossible of circumstances. You alone are good. Amen
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