The Seventh sign

Those who asked the question in verses 36 & 37 had a valid point, at least on the surface. The problem with a superficial understanding is that we do not see the purpose of what is going on behind the scenes. Case in point: while this was about resurrecting a dear friend, the sign itself had nothing to do with Lazarus. It was a foreshadowing of the death and resurrection of Jesus Himself. The purpose is always to glorify God and to give Him the praise only He deserves.

Jesus grieved for His mourning friends, but I am sure that the inevitable symbolism was never lost on Him. It would only be a short time until He would be persecuted, crucified and also resurrected. Resurrection, as we now know, comes at a very steep price. And while the price for the believer is already paid by Jesus, we must always remember that He paid for it with His own life … real flesh crucified and real blood shed. For all “who might believe,” the individual resurrection into eternal life also comes at a personal price. This price is a commitment to Jesus Christ, and all of that which accompanies it, in a world that is becoming less and less forgiving. First, we must believe that we will see the glory of God. Faith is critical. Without it there is no next step. Secondly, we must live our lives confident that Jesus is enough, and that in Him and with Him, we are protected from harm. There is nothing bigger, or more powerful, than our God!

Our God can raise the dead and he can build universes; and yet he is a God who weeps for His children. We have been decaying in the flesh for much longer than four days, yet we can also be raised to a new life. If we only trust Him Jesus says, “Remove the stone; child come out! Didn’t I tell you that you would see the glory of God?”

Thank you Lord for hearing my heart cry out …