The one Jesus loved was ill. It’s important to notice the term of affection here. He loved Lazarus, Mary and Martha. He could have healed him from a distance, he had shown this power before. I myself have asked, “Jesus will you heal me like you healed those others?” And I wait, hoping and praying.
Jesus tells his disciples that for the sake of the glory of God he waits. While he waits, Lazarus dies.
The sisters must have been confused and in their hearts said, “Why has this happened?” This is reflected in their first words to Jesus, “If only you had been here…” How much are our lives are spent with this statement of remorse, “God, if only.” When we say this we are tempted to doubt God’s love, care and affection for us.
In John 11:33 Jesus is deeply moved by the grief and sorrow of the sisters. God sees you, and your hurt. Psalm 34:18 tells us that God is near to the broken-hearted and those crushed in spirit. I have found this to be true. I have never been closer to God than during this season. I trust that whatever happens, God will get all the glory. If you trust him in your weakness and in your suffering, he will use you and this season of suffering for his glory. Draw strength from him and put your whole hope in him. May God bless you and fill you with a thankful heart. May whatever we do and say bring glory to his name.
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