From The Desk of:

The Power of Belief: Embracing God's Glory in Our Lives

It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by despair and hopelessness in challenging times. Yet, the Gospel of John, particularly the story of Lazarus in John 11:38-44, reveals a profound truth about God's glory and the hope that arises from belief. This account shows how God's light shines even in life's darkest moments, encouraging us to hold onto faith amid our struggles.

As Jesus arrives at the tomb of Lazarus, He is met with the grief of Martha and Mary, the deceased's sisters. Their sorrow reflects a very human reaction—an instinct to accept death as the end. Martha's concern about the smell of decay encapsulates our tendency to fear the finality of our difficulties, whether in relationships, careers, or personal challenges. Such moments prompt us to question our hope, tempting us to believe that it is too late for change.

However, in this situation, Jesus poses a critical question to Martha: "Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?" (John 11:40). This challenge to belief is foundational to our faith journey. God's glory is not solely manifested through miracles but is also revealed in His unwavering presence and power in our lives. The Greek term "doxa", which means glory, signifies God's grace, mercy, and judgment attributes. Often, we miss witnessing this glory because we become entrapped in our problems, overshadowing the potential for renewal and hope.

Reflecting on the account of Moses in Exodus 33:18, we see another longing for God's glory. Moses had witnessed immense miracles but still sought a deeper understanding of God's essence. This desire mirrors our own: continuously seeking God's presence. It illustrates that encountering God's glory is not a singular moment but a continuous faith journey.

When Jesus calls Lazarus forth from the tomb, He does more than restore life; He demonstrates that no situation is beyond God's transformative power. This resurrection is a beacon of hope to all who believe, reminding us that even our most dre circumstances hold the potential for divine intervention.

As believers, we are called to live in the light of this glory. Romans 6:4 encourages us to pursue a new life, reflecting Christ's resurrection. This call to action urges us to manifest God's glory through our daily lives, becoming sources of hope and inspiration for others.

©Nov 31, 2024 Courtney Henderson