Lazarus died.

We are following a timeline that tells us what occurred in the two week period prior to Jesus crucifixion and resurrection. If we go to John 11, we note that Jesus is at Bethabara. (See the previous post to locate this village on the map.) Bethabara is about 20 miles from Bethany, which would be approximately a one day journey.

Jesus is a very close friend of Mary and Martha. So, they sent word to Jesus that their brother Lazarus is very very sick. They knew he had the power to heal, and they were banking on the fact that he would rush to the side of Lazarus.

Only, he didn’t.

Lazarus died.

Mary and Martha were disappointed with Jesus. BUT, that’s because they didn’t see the miracle Jesus was going to perform not only in their brother‘s life but also in their life.

Have you ever been disappointed with God?

Just as he was at work in Mary Martha and Lazarus life he’s at work in our life too.

If the truth be told, Jesus disciples did not want him to be anywhere near Jerusalem for fear he would be stoned.

Why would anyone want a stone him?

There were many people who had seen the miracles of Jesus. They knew there was something special about him because he was doing miracles that their Old Testament prophets told them only the Messiah could do.

The religious leaders of Israel were threatened big-time! They were not about to sit back and watch the whole nation of Israel follow Jesus. Because, if that happened, the Roman army would step in, and they would lose their power.

Not so different from our world today, is it?

And remember this was all taking place within the two week period before Jesus was crucified.