Jesus at the Cave of Lazarus

Jesus delayed going to Bethany when He learned Lazarus was sick. Why? This confused Martha. She did not hesitate to share her opinion with Jesus (Luke 10:38-42). She was a hardcharging force with a dominant personality. She could also be wrong. Her sister Mary was far more tender-hearted. Both sisters had broken hearts. Where was Jesus when they needed Him most? His actions did not make sense. They were disappointed and hurt.

Asking questions is part of life. We have questions like this all day long— not only about Bible stories but concerning events in our lives. Our questions often go unanswered. We may never understand why certain things happen. Paul’s quote is appropriate: “For now, we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12). Lazarus coming out of the cave and back to life was unprecedented. Believe it or not, it was also the final straw for Jesus’ opponents. He was too popular for them. Sadly, they preferred a funeral to a party.

Jesus delayed His trip to Bethany so people could grasp more about His identity. We also perceive His compassion. The shortest verse in the Bible packs a wallop: “Jesus wept.” He came to redeem the sting of sin from us.