Reflections On The Gospel Of John Sample

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE Lazarus, the brother of Mary (the one who washed Jesus’ feet with her hair) and Martha, and the beloved friend of Jesus was sick. Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus on behalf of Lazarus hoping He would come and heal their brother before his condition worsened. Jesus agreed to make the journey, yet knowing that Lazarus was dying He and His disciples did not depart their current location for another two days. Then seemingly out of nowhere Jesus announced that Lazarus was dead, but nonetheless they all still prepared for the journey to now the tomb where Lazarus was buried instead of to his bedside. Surely the disciples must have thought this would be a wasted journey; however, Jesus had bigger plans because He knew the power of God He possessed. When Jesus finally arrived he greeted Mary and Martha, He reassured them that though Lazarus was dead he would in fact live again. Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die” (JHN. 11.25-26, New Living Translation). At this point Lazarus had been dead and in the grave for a few days with his body beginning to decompose as bodily fluids dried up with rigor mortis setting in. Yet this did not deter Jesus, the One who was and still is a Restorer and Giver of life. After the stone had been rolled away Jesus used the power and authority of His Word to call out to his dear friend using three simple words: “Lazarus, come forth” (JHN.11.43)! There may be areas in your life today, whether finances, marriage, bad relationships, wayward children, employment, or just “stinking thinking” that may appear to be dead, has become a stench to you and those around you, or have you bound. Refuse to get discouraged, but instead begin to speak life to the situation(s) and watch God work. Know today that Jesus (the Living Word) has the ability to resurrect that which is dead in your life. Though your current situation may appear to be dead, stinking, and hopeless, IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO SPEAK LIFE!