Good friends of Jesus: Mary , Martha, and Lazarus, lived in Bethany. Mary is known throughout history, for her lavish expression of love to Jesus, when she poured the expensive perfume on His head. When Lazarus became ill, Jesus was notified. His response confused His disciples. Following Jesus didn’t make sense until they understood His purpose, followed His direction and did so, despite unbelief.
His Purpose
Jesus loved Martha, her sister, and Lazarus. When He heard about the sickness, He stayed where he was for two more days. To His followers it didn’t make much sense. Surely, the Healer would rush to His side or at least pronounce healing over him, especially being those He loved so deeply. Instead, He spoke to the overwhelming circumstance, “This sickness is not unto death, BUT for the glory of God, that the Son Of God might be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) There were bigger issues at work in this situation.
His Direction
After the two day delay, Jesus says, “Let us go to Judea again.” The disciples questioned Him. “Have you forgotten something?” they asked Him, “Don’t you remember they tried to stone you the last time we were there?” But Jesus told them the necessity of working while it was light. It is important to use the opportunities when the light is present. Then He told them that Lazarus was asleep and He needed to go wake him. When they misunderstood, He told them Lazarus was dead and He was glad for their sake. The events to take place before them, would solidify their faith in Him.
Confessing Unbelief
Thomas, known as the doubter, fulfilled his character by saying, “Let us also go that we may die with Him.” He let it out, his fear, his disbelief. Jesus knew what was in His heart and how his belligerent following would eventually rest in faith, knowing Jesus the Christ.
Following Jesus doesn’t always make sense until we understand His purpose, follow His direction and do so despite our unbelief.
