Read John 12:1-36
Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. John 12:1-3
Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him. John 12:9-11
Dear God,
What a remarkable event! Lazarus was dead. You wept for him, raised him back to life and now he is reclining at the table with You at dinner! This was making many people believe in You as our Messiah. How could one not believe when witnessing a man who was dead attending a dinner? What would make anyone doubt You after performing such a miracle? Insecurity, unworthiness, fear, loss of control, guilt, shame, jealousy, greed and worldly praise are a few of the reasons people refused to believe in Jesus then and continue to be the reasons people are “stuck” in their own circumstances now. God is calling you out of your tomb today. Leave all of those heavy reasons behind, take a new breath of life offered daily from God and come alive again like Lazarus. That is the gift we have been given courtesy of the cross. Hear the voice of Jesus today calling you. Open your heart to wake up to His love, come alive and follow Him to freedom.
I love You, Papa.
Suggested song: “Rise Up (Lazarus)” by Cain