John 11:38-44 (NLT)

Today’s reading is the famous story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Previous verses indicate that Lazarus’ sisters asked Jesus to come to heal His beloved friend, Lazarus, and for reasons they could not understand, he had delayed. The healing the sisters had both longed for had not occurred. While Jesus gave no explanation, it soon becomes clear that Jesus had a powerful reason. He would use the death of Lazarus to demonstrate his power over death.

There is nothing ambiguous about today’s text and modern day evangelical Christians have no problem believing in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that powerfully saved us all from eternal condemnation. The message of God’s great love is easy to swallow. However, there is an important aspect of God’s salvation that many of us fail to see.

As indicated in verse 44, we are all joyous that we came out of the dark cave by the wondrous grace of our God. Yet, can you imagine Lazarus walking around in grave clothes for the rest of his life? Testifying of God’s love in smelly, gloomy linen that had him bound in darkness? Though many might be convinced of his words, none would be attracted to yield their lives to that kind of lifestyle. Many Christians are in this predicament today and that is perhaps one of the biggest reasons why we can’t convince the world of God’s love.

Jesus’ words are very clear. “Take off the grave clothes and let him go!” We can’t save ourselves because there is nothing good in us. But as God has brought this salvation upon our lives and given us the Spirit of life, we must surrender to His grace every day and walk in union with Christ. And that union will bring out our holiness! We emphasize God’s love so much that we overshadow an attribute of our God that is the essence of who He is. Our God is holy, holy, holy. Yes, God loves me and His only son Jesus died for me on the cross for my sins. But we must also remember that God is also holy and just, therefore the sins had to be atoned for. Let’s realize how wonderful God’s love is as we gaze upon the cross; at the same time, know how horrific your sins and mine are in light of the cross.

Reflection:
What are some areas in your life that give you the most trouble in relation to God’s holiness? Are these areas brought to God in submission during your daily devotions? Meditate on God’s love as Paul did throughout his entire life (Eph. 3:18-19) and let His love be your only motivation to change—not fear. Seek the help of the Holy Spirit, who resides in you, and meditate on His fruit (Gal. 5:22, 23).

Posted: May 8, 2007
*This devotional first appeared in Encounter Monthly Journal, January 2006