Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.”
— John 11:25

Thought Of The Day...
When Jesus arrived in Bethany, Martha approached him with a charge: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would still be alive.” Jesus assured her that Lazarus would rise again, to which Martha replied, “Yes, we understand—eventually.” As Jews, Martha and Mary believed in a future resurrection, but it felt distant and offered little immediate solace, a sentiment we can relate to at times. The sisters also trusted that Jesus could have prevented Lazarus' death. When he raised Lazarus (John 11:38-44), imagine the profound impact on him and his sisters. Their perspective on Jesus undoubtedly changed.

In this new year, as we follow Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, we must heed his call about his purpose and its significance for us today. If our faith wavers under sorrow, he revives us with the powerful declaration: “I am the resurrection and the life.” This statement, part of Jesus’ “I am”, affirms his identity as the true God, prompting us to reflect, just as he did with Martha, “Do you believe this?”

Prayer...
Lord Jesus, As we gather in prayer, we are reminded of your promise in John 11:25 that you have power over death and that those who believe in you will also be raised to life. We are grateful for the hope and assurance that this promise brings to our hearts.

Lord, in this world, we face trials and difficulties, and sometimes the weight of these challenges can feel like a death sentence. But we know that with you, there is always hope. You have conquered death, and you are alive! Your resurrection gives us the promise of eternal life with you.

So today, we pray for faith. We pray for the kind of unwavering, steadfast faith that knows without a doubt that you will raise us from death, just as you did with Lazarus. May this faith sustain us through the darkest of times and give us the courage to face whatever comes our way.

Thank you, Jesus, for being our Savior and Lord. Help us to trust in your promise and live every day in the light of your resurrection. May your name be praised now and forevermore. In Jesus name, Amen.