Daily Bread 4/1/2024

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    Daily Bread – April 1, 2024 (The Second Day – Genesis 1:6-8) John 11:25 – Jesus said to her, “I am the Resurrection and the Life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, he shall live.” Lazarus Raised From The Dead When Jesus arrived in Bethany, only Martha came out to meet Him. This was of great concern to Jesus, who would not take another step towards the miracle until Mary arrived (John 11:28-30). Up to this point, Mary was cast as a more devoted disciple to Jesus. However, the one who sat at Jesus’ feet and chose the better part had become deeply wounded (Luke 10:39). Now, Mary sat at home in her disappointment and grief while Martha ran to meet the Master. But it was essential that Mary participated in this miracle if it was going to take place. Martha had not lost hope. She was convinced that whatever Jesus asked the Father, it would be given to Him (John 11:22). When Jesus told her that her brother would rise again, she thought He was directing her attention to the time to come in the distant future when all people would be raised up. But then, Jesus said, “I am the Resurrection.” He was telling her that the Resurrection is here! Martha’s response was, once again, one of confidence and faith when she agreed saying, “I know that you are the Christ, the Son of God!” (John 11:23-27). Divine compassion swept over the soul of Jesus when Mary came to Him and was weeping. In this divine compassion, Jesus said, “Where have you laid him?” The Word of Life then spoke out the word of faith that would cause even the believers to be taken back. Jesus said, “Roll away the stone.” He already knew what would take place. He was there by the divine direction from the Father to “wake him up.” Martha, who seemed so confident God would give Jesus whatever He asked, is now taken beyond what she could imagine. It is as though she is saying, “Are you sure? Do you know how far gone he is?” Everyone involved in this miracle must be willing to follow and go beyond what they have faith for and listen to the instructions of the Master. Jesus must have their participation. It will be left to them to give the final orders to “roll away the stone” and comply with what He directed. They must be willing to believe if they were going to see the glory of God revealed (John 11:40). Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen