The Gospel of John, 6/5/15
John 11:1-25. Jesus public ministry transitions into a more private and personal ministry. He is no longer reaching out to the nation of Israel, but is leaning towards the cross now. It's before Passover, between December and April. Lazarus lay ill and dying. His sister, Mary, was the one that was at Jesus' feet, pouring perfume out on Him, in a display of humility. She is a great example for us to practice humility in recognition of our position in this life. It's not about us. It's about Jesus.
Notice they didn't demand healing from Jesus. I'm all for passion, but I don't think it appropriate to force or press the Lord, as if we could manipulate His will. They didn't even ask for healing, but simply presented the situation to Him and waited for His response. That's how we should pray: bring to Him our problems; let our hearts cry out to Him; come around to trust in Him; be patient; rest in Him; believe He works everything for good; have faith in His purpose for our struggles, trials, etc.; understand nothing comes into our lives without His permission (Job's story); this is all for His glory. And sometimes He allows our loved ones to die. We may not understand why and it may not fit our image of success of what is deserved, but He has His reasons. He loves you. We shouldn't think our circumstances are evidence of His love for us, or lack thereof. You can't keep Him from loving you with the most solid love possible in all of creation.
Interesting, Jesus doesn't go to Bethany immediately upon hearing the bad news. It reminds me of the Roman centurion wanting Jesus to heal his son in another town. Instead, He waited for two days before making the trip. That's some steady faith right there. I believe I would be inclined to sprint the whole trip in a panicked reaction! The disciples recognized the danger of returning to the place where the Jews wanted to stone Jesus if they saw Him again. Thomas, known for doubting, stood up in courage and said he would follow, even if it meant dying with Him. Sometimes, even a character that is doubtful or timid can show consistent courage and commitment. But following Jesus may not be the most dangerous place to be. Failing to follow Him puts you in the most dangerous situation! With Jesus, you can go into the danger zone and come out unscathed, if it is not your time to step into eternity. Now, let's not test the Lord in recklessness, but as mentioned, if He leads, then follow with courage.
Mary and Martha had opened up their home to Jesus. They communed with Him in fellowship, but that didn't make them immune to tragedy in their lives. Their brother has died. Thankfully, Jesus states this will be for the purpose to bring God glory in the end. But I like their approach to Him. They didn't approach Him based on their love for Him. They approached Him based on how He loved them. They put their confidence in how solid His love was for them. We tend to not doubt His ability to do the miracles we ask. We doubt His willingness. Some people are at His feet in good times; others are at His feet in bad times. Mary was always at His feet. She knew Him and she knew her position in Him. And you begin to talk and act like whoever you are hanging out with. We should surround ourselves with fellow disciples that want to follow Jesus. Our closest friends should be ones that speak words of faith, act in love, and put their trust in Christ. Nothing should hinder these types of fruitful friendships. Don't let awkward work or family relationships and fears of rumors discourage you from pursuing and participating in the very relationships that will help you LIVE UP! Find a way to make it work. It's worth it.
