“This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” — John 11:4
In Proper Time
Have you ever wondered, “God, what are You waiting for?” I have. I am sure siblings Mary, Martha and Lazarus did as well.
As personal friends of Jesus, they did not hesitate to ask Jesus to come when Lazarus became severely ill. They knew Jesus could heal him. But, hearing of the situation, Jesus waited two days before heading to His friends. In the meantime, Lazarus died. When Jesus arrived, both sisters stated, “If You had been here, my brother would not have died.”
Why does Jesus wait? We do not always know, but in this instance we are told. Before going to His friends, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). He also said He was glad He was not there because it will cause others to believe. Then, Jesus miraculously raised Lazarus from the dead, and as a result, many believed in Him.
Perhaps you have experienced the death of a dream. You wondered why Jesus did not show up for you. Why did He wait? The situation now seems hopeless. Take courage. God may or may not resurrect your dream. His ways are not our ways. But, if we do not give up, in the proper time we will see God work. He will be glorified. Our personal faith will grow and others will believe.
— Karen Zando, NWSL’s Orlando Pride chaplain
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