When Lazarus fell into a deadly illness, his sisters informed Jesus that the one he loved was sick. Confident of His love for them, they expected that Jesus would come immediately. Jesus’ response to the news however was quite shocking. Jesus delayed going and instead waited two more days purposefully. He knew that Lazarus would die and that his sisters would suffer much pain and sorrow. Yet, he saw Lazarus’ death as an opportunity to glorify God and to help them and the disciples to believe in him as the Resurrection and the Life. Sometimes, God brings hardships in our lives, including the painful and sorrowful ones such as the death of loved ones. This, however, is always done with our soul’s good in mind, as trials refine our faith and secure our hope of the resurrection.

When Jesus decided to go to visit Lazarus in the tomb, the disciples were fearful because they had no light in their hearts. We must remember however that, as long as we follow Jesus (9:5), we will not stumble. As no one can change twelve hours of daylight that God set, no one can change our lifespan that is in God’s hand. Those who walk by day, therefore, will be confident and victorious in their service to God. Jesus saw death as a short time of sound sleep. In Jesus, there is no element of death.
Application: Lord, help me to trust in you in my trials, as opportunities to glorify you and walk in your light.
One Word: God works sovereignly in our pain.