Our Sickness Will Not End in Death

“This sickness will not end in death.”

 

These are Jesus' words from today’s reading, John11:1-44.

 

Lazarus had been sick, and he died. Jesus was reassuring Martha and her sister with his words. Threatened by Jews who wanted to stone him, Jesus traveled to Bethany to see Lazarus.

 

Although in the grave for four days, Jesus brought Lazarus back to life.

 

In so doing, Jesus said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.” Jesus was acknowledging that he was the Son of God with his words. His actions, bringing dead Lazarus back to life, demonstrated that he was God!

 

This miracle most likely was spoken throughout Judea, Jerusalem and all of Israel. Many people no doubt came to know about Jesus through this miracle.

 

Jesus had a direct impact on the life of Lazarus. He also has a direct impact on our life.

 

We too have a sickness. That sickness is our sinful nature. We cannot help ourselves. We are humans. Sin is what we do.

 

Fortunately for us, “This sickness will not end in death.”

 

It should. God demands justice, and our behaviors demand he take action.

 

Jesus is the Great Physician. His death on the cross takes away our sin, that is, our sickness. His painful action of death cured us. We will live forever.

 

Just as Jesus brought Lazarus back to life so he could once again live, Jesus brings us back to life so that we can live with him for eternity.

 

Our sickness will not end in death.