Scripture:
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me, even if he dies, will live. Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’” (John 11:25-26)
Reading:
There is a special woman mentioned three times in the gospel accounts. At every mention of this woman, she appears at the feet of Jesus (Luke 10:39, John 11:32; 12:3). Her name is Mary of Bethany. Whether Mary is listening, grieving, or worshiping, she is always near Christ.
In John 11, Lazarus, who is Mary’s brother and a close friend of Jesus, is battling for his life. Mary sent word to Jesus, trusting that He would save her brother. He healed everyone who sought Him! But to her utter heartbreak, Jesus did not come.
Lazarus was buried in his tomb. Four days later Mary learned that Jesus had finally arrived on the scene. She came to Him, fell at His feet, and poured out her heart, affirming what she believed. "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." (John 11:32) In her grief, she still clung to the truth - Jesus is life.
Yet, Mary and Lazarus’ story did not end with this pain. Jesus allowed their profound suffering “for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) Just as Lazarus' story did not end in the tomb, our painful situations can also experience new life.
Christ’s resurrection power is available not only as a future hope but also a present reality. As we invite Jesus into our circumstances, trusting His transformative power, we can be near to Him in prayer and wait with His empowerment. This changes everything!
Paul reminded the believers in Rome of this powerful truth. “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4)
The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in you (Romans 8:11). His resurrection power is not just available - it is active.
As you consider Mary at the feet of Jesus - wondering, weeping, worshiping - may her example lead you to that same place of surrender and trust. He is the resurrection and the life. You are united to the One who conquered death and now offers His resurrection life to you. Keep coming to Jesus, again and again, where grace flows freely, and life begins anew.
Your Turn:
1. Like Mary, am I consistently positioning myself at the feet of Jesus regardless of my circumstances?
2. What areas of life feel broken or burdensome? Ask Jesus to bring His resurrection power into those places.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that You are the resurrection and the life. There is no other like You! Thank You that You come to me and help me when I ask. You are so faithful. Please glorify Yourself through my circumstances. Amen.