There was a man named Lazarus who lived in the village of Bethany with the two sisters, Mary and Martha, and he was ill. – It was the same Mary, the sister of the sick man Lazarus, who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair. The sisters sent this message to Jesus, ‘Lord, the man you love is ill.’ On receiving the message, Jesus said, ‘This sickness will end not in death but in God’s glory, and through it the Son of God will be glorified.’ Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, yet when he heard that Lazarus was ill he stayed where he was for two more days before saying to the disciples, ‘Let us go to Judaea.’ The disciples said, ‘Rabbi, it is not long since the Jews wanted to stone you; are you going back again?’ - John 11:1-8
It's day 40 of Lent. We're left with about four days, and we've made our commitments to change from our old ways. There would surely be some of us who have not made much real effort to living up to our commitment. At the same time, I'm sure there are many who have put in much effort, and yet cannot honestly see any change now.
I hope that if you're one of those who has put in all you've got into change, that you will keep hoping in the Lord. John's recounting of the story of Lazarus gives us much hope. Lazarus was ill, yet, although He loved him, Jesus allowed Lazarus to remain in his condition for a while. Jesus knows when the best time is make the change.
Just as Jesus loved Lazarus deeply, Jesus loves YOU deeply. And you can be sure that as long as you keep trying, Jesus will play His part to perfection. And when He makes His move, there'll be nothing that will be able to stop Him from getting to you.
Do not be afraid. Trust in the Lord and place your hope in Him who truly loves you.
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