From The Desk of:

Finding Hope in Grief: Lessons from the Resurrection of Lazarus

 We often confront deep questions about faith, life, and death in times of grief and loss. The account of Lazarus, as recounted in Scripture, offers an exploration of these questions, mainly through the interactions between Jesus, Martha, and Mary.

 When Jesus arrived in Bethany after Lazarus’ death, Martha greeted Him with sorrow and faith. Her words resonate with many who find themselves in similar situations: “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now, I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You” (John 11:21-22). In her grief, Martha expresses a profound faith that reflects the human experience—feeling overwhelmed by loss while simultaneously holding onto hope.

  This touching scene invites us to reflect on the nature of grief and our relationship with God. Jesus' response—“Your brother will rise again”—is not just a promise of eventual resurrection but also a declaration of His identity: “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). In essence, death does not have the final word. This powerful truth reminds us that, through faith in Christ, we can rise above our circumstances.

  As Martha acknowledges Christ as the Messiah, she embodies the duality of faith and doubt many experience during loss. This interplay of emotions is natural; it is part of being human. Yet, faith grants us the strength to navigate these turbulent waters. Just as Martha's encounter with Jesus reaffirmed her belief, we, too, are called to confront our uncertainties and embrace the hope we find in Him.

Mary's response to Jesus’ call illustrates another important aspect of our faith journey. Upon learning that Jesus was seeking her, she did not hesitate; she quickly arose to meet Him (John 11:28-29). Mary's urgency is a beautiful example of how we should approach our relationship with Christ—seeking Him out with eagerness, even when we do not fully understand the outcomes of our situations.

 The account of Lazarus challenges us to confront our grief while inviting us to deepen our faith. It reminds us that Jesus is not just present in our pain; He is the way through it. Our role is to approach Him, actively seek Him, and trust His promise of resurrection and life. As Paul articulated in 1 Corinthians 15:54-55, the ultimate victory over death assures us that “Death is swallowed up in victory.” In our losses, we find hope in His unwavering faithfulness and the promise of eternal life for those who believe.