Christian Writers Circle

Resurrection Life
by Brenda D. Flowers

Then when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. John 11:32-33 NKJV

Have you ever had a time in your life when you struggled between whether to wait or to take action to help a loved one?

Maybe you thought you could fix the problem or help that person get out of dire circumstances. Maybe you wanted to help the loved one to find healing or deliverance and felt you had answers for him or her.

But after seeking God’s will, you knew God was saying to you, Wait and rest knowing I hear and answer your prayers.

In our journey towards maturity in Christ, I believe we all experience times we have to choose to wait rather than immediately help someone.

Jesus waited and He was at rest in the events recorded in John 11. Jesus waited until Lazarus was dead four days. Jesus loved Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, John 11:5 NKJV.

Why did Jesus wait?

After years of studying John 11 in different stages of my life and seeking God to answer my questions, He answered with greater revelation.

I now see how Jesus struggled in His humanity but was obedient to His Father. He knew what His mission was on earth and Jesus knew the greater purpose of His actions. He knew that by waiting, He would give His Father greater glory.

Jesus spoke clearly and boldly, proclaiming supernatural truth. Yet, He identified with humanity in true compassion and care as His spirit groaned and as He wept.

There are great lessons to learn as we study Jesus’ obedience and the power of His words and actions while He was living away from His heavenly home.

We can have full assurance that Jesus sympathizes with our weaknesses. He was in all points tempted as we are, yet was without sin. Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the Life so we may have life in Him.

Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need, Hebrews 4:16.

Prayer: Lord Jesus help us rest in You and wait patiently for answers to our prayers for loved ones. Guide us by Your Spirit to attain to resurrection life. Amen.