Grammar alert; Lazarus probably looked like a mummy, not a *sarcophagus* (yesterday’s nougat).
I wonder if they had a special party for Lazarus? Today’s Holy Nougat isn’t clear on the details.
“Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.” John 11:45 NLT
So we end as we began – with questions
Where are you when Lazarus gets out of the tomb, and what was your response when you saw him first?
Not only ought we consider Lazarus as we did yesterday, but we should think about his sisters who had been devastated by his death. They must have been so elated! And I presume, like the crowd, their faith restored; they were back to being exemplary believers, supporting Jesus every step of the way (see chapter 12).
I believe though that this resurrection was transformative for most involved – even Jesus. Recognizing his friends’ shallow faith, both the disciples and the sisters must hurt; but what joy to see their transformation on being witnesses to Lazarus resurrection!
Then there’s the crowd, were you among those who believed; or were you still skeptical? It’s hard to believe there were those, but yes; they were there and they also had a purpose to fulfill. A horrible underhand purpose … but that’s their choice and purpose.
As a disciple, what lessons did you learn from the entire experience? Did it affect your faith in Jesus? Were you a little bit proud of Jesus and happy to affiliate with him? Did you have an Elisha moment – considering that maybe you could ask for a double portion of Jesus anointing? Or were you so mystified that you were beside yourself? (Or beginning to plot his death like Judas?)
Was God’s glory revealed in the resurrection? How did this impact your own lifestyle?
– as part of the crowd?
– as a disciple?
– as one of the 3 siblings?
What would your diary entry be like when you returned home from this event? (You’re welcome to share those publicly or privately).
I close with thanksgiving for our resurrection from the night’s sleep
