John 11, Part 3

Scripture: John 11:28-32

Observation: Martha goes and fetches Mary her sister, as Jesus is asking for her (v.28). Mary immediately takes off to see Jesus, who was not at their house but at a different location, where Martha had met Him (v.30). Those who were with Mary, consoling her in her grief, went after her, thinking she was going to the tomb to mourn (v.31). Upon seeing Jesus, she kneels before Him and cries, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died." (v.32).

Application: Several lessons can be learned from this short passage. First, we see both Martha and Mary run to Jesus in their despair. Do I run to Jesus when the world around me seems to be crumbling, or do I look to my own strength? Next, we see the crowds who, upon seeing Mary leave, get up to accompany her. Am I willing to go the extra mile when someone needs me? Am I there for my loved ones in body, or just in my thoughts? Lastly, we see Mary's faith as well. She doesn't understand why these things have taken place, but of one thing she is certain: If Jesus had been there, Lazarus would have lived. Is my faith still strong when things don't go my way? Can I still praise Jesus in my pain and suffering?

Prayer: Father, I know that being a Christian means doing as much as saying. It doesn't help anyone for me to simply call myself a Christian; I have to put my faith in action. Show me those moments when I can be a blessing to others so that I can be a beacon of light. May You be the one I turn to in all moments of life, and may it serve as a testimony of Your faithfulness. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.