In John 11, we read the famous Bible story of Lazarus being raised from the dead. This story is fascinating, with the plot twist of Jesus hearing the SOS from Lazurus’ sisters. He then, purposefully, stays away until Lazarus dies and is entombed for four days. A dramatic ending ensues with Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead – demonstrating Jesus’ power over death – a preview of things to come in His life.
Let’s focus on Lazarus’ sisters, Mary and Martha. The mention of their names brings the picture of Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha busies herself with meal preparation. What if thirteen men paid you a surprise visit at mealtime?
The Bible narrative reads that, though these are sisters, they are VERY DIFFERENT PEOPLE. Martha, the doer, has a servant’s heart – caring for her visitors in a spirit of hospitality. Mary, the contemplative worshiper, throws convention to the side as she sits at His feet. Another time she pours a vial of perfume to wash His feet – further abandoning propriety.
We return to Lazarus. When Jesus finally returns to Bethany, after the sisters’ summons, they have the SAME CONCLUSION – each expressed independently, “ Lord IF YOU HAD BEEN HERE my brother would not be dead.” Two different people have a universal response. When the answer to our prayers doesn’t come as we hope, we see our Jesus as leaving us, momentarily not on the job, getting sidelined, or worse, not even caring. In this instance, Lazarus was raised from the dead. In many situations, we see an entirely different “answer.” God says in Hebrews 13:5 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “His way is perfect,” according to Psalm 18:30. His answer is THE ONE for your situation, always based in love. He is GOD WITH US.
~ Nan Robertson
Christ Fellowship