Jesus said to [Martha], “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25, 26 (ESV)

I died last month! Jesus was nearby, but he didn’t come. He could have healed me, but he didn’t. I suffered, my family grieved, my sisters prayed, (they even sent and asked him to come), my neighbors mourned, the doctors gave up. And I died.

Now that I’m not dead anymore, I realize that Jesus was always aware. He cared, probably more than I can ever understand. I’m told that he cried at my grave. And I understand that he told his closest companions that his delay in getting to me – his failure to interfere in my death – was actually for the best. And I’m confident – now – that his delay was God’s plan and – as always – his plan was perfect.

I might have been another of the many that he healed. Instead, I’m one that he actually raised from the dead.

I always knew he could heal. I always believed he could show up at the last moment; that it’s never too late until its over. But now I know it’s never too late. It’s never over. God always has a plan – even in my death.

My sisters pray differently now. My neighbors don’t mourn like they used to. Even grief and life’s daily struggles are always tempered with hope.

I think I’ll die much more calmly next time.

And I know I’ll live much more confidently until then.

– Lazarus

PS Jesus died last week! But He rose on the third day! What can I possibly fear? Death has no power. The devil has no authority. Life always triumphs. And HE IS THE LIFE!

(You can read Lazarus’ story in the Gospel of John, chapter 11. Jesus’ death and resurrection is recorded in John, chapters 18-20.)