Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.
—  John 11:43-44

Thought Of The Day...
Lazarus met Jesus—many times. The two of them were friends. Jesus and his disciples had often stayed at the home of Lazarus and his sisters, Mary and Martha. So when Lazarus died, Jesus joined the family in grieving deeply.
Lazarus had now been dead for four days, long enough for everyone to know that he was certainly dead. But Jesus told them to open the tomb anyway—and when he commanded Lazarus to come out, the dead man came back to life and walked out of the tomb.
This is an astonishing miracle, but it shows us even more than Jesus’ miraculous power. It shows us that Jesus is stronger than death. This story acts like a kind of preview for the even more important story of Jesus’ resurrection. Jesus points forward to that event when he says to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
Jesus had healed people, fed people, and walked on water. But this! Jesus also raised the dead!
Jesus will also call our names and bring us out of death—into life that will never end. “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26).


Prayer...
Heavenly Father, we come to you with hearts full of gratitude and awe for your unfailing love and power. In John 11:43-44, we see you demonstrate your authority over death as you raised Lazarus from the grave. We are humbled by your mighty works and we give you all the glory.

Lord, we ask for your guidance and strength as we journey through this life. We face many challenges and trials, but with you as our Lord and Savior, we have no reason to fear. You have conquered death and given us the promise of eternal life. Thank you for the hope and peace that this promise brings.

Help us to always remember your power and to trust in you in all circumstances. May the story of Lazarus remind us that you are present with us in our lowest moments and that you have the power to bring new life and restoration.

Heavenly Father, we pray that your love and power will be evident in our lives and that others may come to know you through our testimony. As we await your ultimate victory over death, may we live boldly and confidently in your promises. In Jesus precious name, we pray. Amen.