Jesus has power to raise the dead

The Raising of Lazarus by James Martin

In the New Testament book of John, chapter 11, Jesus received an urgent message from his friends Mary and Martha, that Lazarus, their brother and good friend of Jesus, was sick. The passage tells us that Jesus loved all of them, yet he did not rush to their home. Eventually, Lazarus died. Many could not understand why. When Jesus finally arrived at the house of mourning, Martha could not help but say "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." But Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that you believed, you would see the glory of God?"

It seems Jesus delayed and allowed Lazarus to die. Then, he went to the tomb and said, "Roll the stone away.... Lazarus, come out!" Imagine the gasps and shouts as Lazarus, still bound in grave clothes, came out of the tomb, very much alive. It must be that Jesus wanted to demonstrate before the eyes of all that he has power to raise the dead.

Jesus is still alive, and he still has power to raise the dead. He raises people who are spiritually dead every single day. When I was spiritually dead, living a life of no control of myself, I asked Jesus to help me. Though I had prayed before, this time I meant it: I needed real help. He began to show himself to me, that he is very much alive and very willing to come be a real friend at my side, spiritually, every moment. I began to feel life, the ability to control myself, to say no to things that hurt myself and others.

This passage also reminds us to trust his timing. If Jesus does not answer right away, please do not lose hope. Keep asking him. This is not a light matter. I am waiting for several large requests. But this story encourages to trust when he says to us, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" Hold on to him, friend, and he will help in his best time and in the best way.