John 11:1-6
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Today we’ll consider the first part of the story of Jesus and the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Read John 11:1-6 a couple of times as if you’ve never heard the story before. Take note of any feelings or questions that come up as you read.
Timing is everything. It seems we often hear stories of God coming through just-in-time or at the last moment. But what happens when God doesn’t intervene on time?
In spite of his love for Lazarus, Mary and Martha, Jesus stays put when he hears that Lazarus is seriously ill. For the disciples, the message of Jesus is clear: Lazarus’ sickness will not end in death. But what Jesus doesn’t tell them is that in the middle of this story, he will appear to be mistaken.
Stop to review the past few months of your life. What has Jesus been saying to you?
Over the past few months have you been asking Jesus for anything specific? If so, have you seen anything happen? Does it seem like Jesus is delaying an answer to your request?
Talk all of this over with him.
Read John 11:1-6 again with all of this in mind.
Faith is only faith when it is exercised. When everything is going well and Jesus is answering our prayers in a timely manner, faith is easy. But when it seems like Jesus is slow in coming to our aid when we need him most, it takes strong, stubborn faith to trust him.
Talk to Jesus about the current nature of your faith in him. Be completely honest about areas of your life where you are struggling to trust him. Then get quiet and see if Jesus has anything to say to you.
As you end this time of meditation, consider asking Jesus to give you strong, stubborn faith that is anchored on his promises to you. If you sense that there is something Jesus wants you to do to increase your faith, make a note of the action you need to take.
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