Resurrection and Life

Jesus said to Martha, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25

  Further Reading John 11

Artist: Rembrandt

Completion Date: 1630 

 Gallery: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA, USA

When messengers inform Jesus of Lazarus’s illness, Jesus does not declare a command of healing, but instead assures everyone that Lazarus sickness will not end in death. Then he continues in his work and ministry.  So much so that he goes to see Lazarus only two days later.

Jesus goes boldly to Judea even though there were death threats issued for him and his disciples. Jesus knew that until the time came for his arrest, nothing could stop him from ministering to the needs of the people.

By the time they arrive Lazarus has been dead and buried. Martha comes to Jesus expressing her sorrow of Lazarus loss. Jesus assures her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never die.” Then he asks Martha do you believe this? Then she affirms her faith in Jesus.

When Mary came weeping to Jesus, he was overwhelmed with grief and wept. Here again we see the humanness of Christ, sorrow over Mary’s tears and anger towards mans powerlessness over the sting of death. With Martha Jesus spoke with power but, with Mary he expressed his grief and sorrow.

It is here in Bethany we see again, the cross cast its heavy shadow on the Jesus ministry. He comes increasing under the watchful eyes of the religious authorities and people of Jerusalem.  Caiaphas words following Lazarus’s resurrection, become almost ominously prophetic as he says, that it is better one man should die for the people, than the whole nation perish.

During lent we look at the way Jesus was preparing his disciples for his death He wanted them to see that everyone who believes in him will live even after dying. Everyone who lives and believes in Christ will never die.  Christ will come again, and nothing can stop this from happening. Do you Believe?

Lord I Believe

Lyrics by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Though I can't see Your holy face
And Your throne in heaven above
It seems so far away
And though I can't touch your nail scarred hands
I have a deep unspeakable joy
That makes my faith to stand

Chorus:
Lord, I believe in You
I'll always believe in You
Though I can't see you with my eyes
Deep in my heart
Your presence I find
Lord, I believe in You
And I'll keep my trust in You
Let this whole world say what they may
No one can take this joy away
Lord, I believe