What Mary & Martha Didn't Know

The Bible tells the stories of two sisters who once entertained Jesus in their home while he visited with their brother, Lazarus. The two sisters were very different in giftings, interests, and behavior. However, they shared one thing in common - they both adored Jesus Christ and considered Him a true Friend.

One day their brother fell ill. As he grew worse with each passing hour, they feared for his life. In their distress they knew exactly Who to call upon for help. They sent a message to their dearest Friend. They knew Jesus loved them and would come quickly when He heard the news.

But Jesus did NOT come quickly. As they waited, watching for Him hour after hour, their hearts must have questioned why...but no answer came. They could not see or understand Jesus and as their brother breathed his last breath, they lost all hope. Their disappointment in their Friend was great, but held privately in their hearts. Their were so many disappointments...the "friends" who DID come, bringing their questioning of Christ's goodness, their mourning and despair...the choking sorrow as they wrapped their beloved brother's lifeless body in gravecloths and laid him in the tomb. It was too late now for the miracle they prayed for - the dream of healing they once held in their hearts.

Days later, Jesus came. The sisters were confused and questioned Him. Why didn't He come? Their hopelessness and intense pain gripped the heart of their Friend, and He wept. He wept perhaps because they didn't understand. They didn't know that as soon as they sent their request for help, a plan was set in motion to fulfill it. They didn't know that Jesus had a strategic timing for their miracle that would bring the Father glory. They didn't know how excited He was to answer their cry. Most of all, they didn't really know how much He loved them...in truth, they didn't know Who He truly was.

Despite their disappointment and questionings; despite the fact that they had given up on the dream, Jesus fulfilled their request. He came as Resurrection and Life, resurrecting their dream and giving life to it once again! Though their "dream" of Lazarus was wrapped tightly and hidden away, Jesus revived it and brought their brother back to life! Jesus was not moved by their pain, disappointment, or questionings. He kept His Word. He loved them too much to ignore their request.

This is how He loves you. YOU are His beloved friend. He remembers every ministry, dream, and gift He has given you. He has heard every prayer. He has set a plan in motion to fulfill your request and has a strategic time for it, so that the Father will be glorified. No matter how "dead" the dream, He is the Resurrection and the Life. Shake off the questionings and silence the doubt. Embrace the incredible love Christ has for you. Trust Him with your dreams. Trust Him with your ministry. He is faithful to fulfill His promises!

Carla Ives
Heart Cry International