The Rest of the Story

This past Sunday, in my series, MEET JESUS, I spoke about Jesus calling Lazarus from the grave. Though I did not have time to talk about it in my sermon, still there is something else in the story that I think you would want to know. It is really The Rest of the Story. Following the raising of Lazarus, they gathered for a dinner celebration and expression of appreciation in Christ’s honor (John 12:2). So Lazarus, who was once lying in a grave, is now reclining with Jesus—at the dinner table, enjoying a meal and sweet fellowship with the Lord.

These combined scenes remind me of the 23rd Psalm. “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me, your rod and staff they comfort me…” Then the psalmist says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows…” (Psalm 23:4-5).

Interestingly, according to the Apostle John, while Lazarus is celebrating this victory with Jesus, there were enemies nearby who were plotting to kill both Jesus and Lazarus (John 12:9-10). The reason they wanted to kill Lazarus too is because “on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in Him.”

However, personally I don’t think Lazarus was afraid of them or bothered by their threats aimed at him. I mean—why would he be afraid of death when he had already experienced it and the power of Jesus that delivered him from death? I think he realized that the threat of death is not all it is cracked up to be when you have Jesus on your side (and by your side).

Instead, the focus of Lazarus was on the victory party and his sweet fellowship with Jesus! He had experienced the amazing power of Jesus in his life—nothing bothered him now and nothing mattered more! Even so, Lazarus was living proof of the life of Jesus.  

We need to remind ourselves that we too are part of Christ’s victory party. This is our celebration too! We can put aside our fears for Christ has already conquered our biggest fear—death. His resurrection shouts victory for us all who believe in Him! Even more, if we have indeed experienced the touch of Jesus, then we are not only living witnesses, we are part of the evidence. His story becomes a part of our story! We now have a story to tell to the nations…so let’s share it! Can I get an Amen?!

Devotedly yours,
Pastor Ron