9 When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well,11 because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. (John 12:9-11)
Lazarus was a miracle. He should still have been in the grave. Yet, for God’s glory, Jesus raised him to life, proving He is the resurrection. You would think by this, that life would be easy going. Lazarus gains a new lease on life, Jesus does the unimaginable, and people would come in droves to repent and believe.
But this was not the case.
Life gets complicated. Jesus performed what was perhaps His most extraordinary miracle, yet life got worse for everyone involved. Lazarus was now Jesus’ legitimacy personified and people hated him for it.
When life goes unexpectedly, it is crucial to remember that resurrection is a person, not an event.
Jesus never promises us a life devoid of struggle but He provides victory within the seemingly constricting walls of life. In essence, trials give us what we need most – Himself. He walks with us in renewed resurrection, to an unexpected end.
Lord, grant us resurrection. Thank you for Jesus and how He gives us victory in struggle. Connect us to you in rich communion. Help us to turn to you in doubt and confusion.
Matt simon blog 