[RE]FOCUS Day 35
Week 5: Revealing
Day 7: I am the resurrection
By John Lucas
READ:
A funeral for a believer in Jesus brings out a full range of emotions. Naturally, people grieve and feel pain at the loss of a loved one. Jesus Himself wept at the death of Lazarus (John 11:35). At the same time, these funerals bring out the greatest of joy: that believer has left this valley of sorrow and is spending eternity with Jesus in heaven!
In fact, several verses before Jesus wept provide that joy for Christians. Jesus tells Martha, the sister of Lazarus some of the most important words in the Bible: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die” (John 11:25). The fear of death is part of our sinful human nature, but Jesus promises that death is not the end. We will be with Jesus forever.
Sadness is OK. When a loved one passes away, we cry and weep. However, focusing on those words of Jesus, we can have the joy and comfort that comes with faith. I pray that you repeat the words of Martha to Jesus in verse 27: “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.”
PRAY:
Jesus, Your words speak life into humanity. Your life reveals the heart of the Father. Your death and resurrection bring new life and freedom. Give us the faith to hear, receive, and live in this faith and all You bring to us through it. Amen.
LIVE:
Jesus’ resurrection means one day you too will rise. What does it mean for you right now?