Paula @ Gracefilled Moments Lazarus and his sisters, Martha and Mary, were close friends of Jesus. So when their brother was ill, the sisters sent for Him, saying, “The one you love is ill.” (John 11:3)
But Jesus didn’t drop everything and leave. He waited two days before journeying to see Lazarus. As He departed, he told his disciples that Lazarus was asleep and it was time to wake him.
When Jesus arrived, Martha hurried out to meet him. Her anguished cry reflects on our own during times of pain, “If You were here, this wouldn’t have happened…”
This is when Jesus reminds her of his Divinity. He says He’s the Resurrection and the Life and asks her if she believes.
“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (John 11:27)
In times of pain—before the Lord has healed an illness or restored a relationship—it can be tempting to focus on what hasn’t happened or get trapped in an endless cycle of questions.
But Jesus encouraged Martha to focus on His identity rather than her pain or her circumstances. Re-affirming what you believe about Jesus can be a powerful way to find peace, even in deep distress.
But just as Jesus called out to Lazarus and brought him back to life, He calls out to us and gives us new life. We may feel like we are dead inside, but Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He can bring us out of the darkness and into the light.
All In All
We may not physically die and rise again like Lazarus. Still, we experience a spiritual rebirth when we accept Jesus as our Savior. He gives us new life, new hope, and a new purpose. We are no longer dead in our sins but alive in Christ.
Just like Lazarus, we are all called to come out of the tomb of our sins and into the light of Christ. We must shed our old self and put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24).
So, if you feel lost, hopeless, or trapped in darkness, remember you are not alone. We have all been there, but we can all be like Lazarus and come out of the tomb and into the light of Christ. He is calling out to you, giving you new life, hope, and purpose. Will you answer His call?
I remember when I was a Lazarus. I love the song Rize Up (Lazarus) by CAIN, because it speaks to me in so many ways. It makes me sing and bop while feeling uplifted, invigorated, and rejuvenated.
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I love that song by Cain, too. Thank you for this encouraging message. Have a blessed day!
You’re so welcome dear friend. Wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day.
This is full of good reminders. We have been called into the light, and then we’ll go through Lazarus seasons and we’ll need to return to the light. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Letetia. Blessings.
I’m so thankful that He called me out of my sin and darkness! Have a blessed day, my friend!
Me too Donna, me too. Sending have a great day wishes your way sweet friend.
Paula, thank you for the reminder to keep my focus on Christ rather than circumstances. This morning it was a needed reminder!
You’re welcome Joanne
Such a wonderful song and a beautiful reflection on the story of Lazarus! Thank you, friend!
Blessings,
Tammy
Thank you bunches Tammy.
The only way I can take thoughts captive is to keep my eyes on Him – and replace those thoughts with His words. Only that brings me out of the dark places, the Lazarus places.
Me too, Maryleigh. Indeed.
I love that song by CAIN too. And I love your analogy that we are often Lazarus ourselves. May I hear the voice of Jesus calling me more and more to life and love, and answer.
Amen Lisa.