“Don’t Give Up To Quickly”
John chapter 11 tells a story most everyone is familiar with. To refresh your memory, it’s the story of Lazarus being raised from the dead. There’s lots to be said about this miracle, but I want to focus on the two sisters, Mary and Martha. We can talk about the dead man who came to life another day..
Have you ever forgotten something really important? I’ve forgotten lots of things, but to my recollection, only a few have been embarrassing. Like forgetting to tell the groom to kiss the bride at the end of the wedding ceremony. Or calling a bride by her twin sisters’ name to put the ring on the finger of her husband to be. These girls began attending our church at an early age, and Chris and I had the pleasure of watching them grow up into wonderful young ladies. But – I was NEVER able to tell them apart. (That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!). Jesus heard there was a need in Bethany. Was he so busy he forgot to go?
Jesus was in Jerusalem and received news his very good friend, Lazarus was sick. He simply said, “This sickness will not end in death – it’s for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified” (v 4). What did this mean? I’m not sure anyone understood it and Jesus went back to his business. Four days later he shows up in Bethany. Lazarus is dead and buried by this time. Mary and Martha were not happy. In fact, Martha said, “IF YOU HAD BEEN HERE our brother wouldn’t have died.” Notice verse 22, “BUT I KNOW THAT EVEN NOW, I know that God will give you whatever you ask.”
Here's the point. Martha gives a statement of faith. “But I know that even now…”. In otherwards, she was still holding out hope. She had a belief when the Lord’s around, He can do anything, anytime. Even when it seems Jesus is four days late, it’s too early to give up. Even when it seems your dream is dead and buried, don’t put a period there. NOTHING IS FINAL, UNTIL GOD SAYS SO!!
Pastor Carnes
