Let’s go and die!

This week we are talking lessons from the life of Lazarus. As we discussed in yesterday’s podcast, Jesus’ response to this situation should be looked at through the lens that he is mentally, spiritually, and emotionally preparing for the mission he is soon to accomplish. His focus is more towards mankind, than a single person in this stage of his ministry. So we continue reading John 11:5-9

 

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more day, and then said to his disciples, “let us go back to Judea.” 

 

“But Rabbi”, they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tired to stone you, and yet you are going back?”

 

Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light. It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.” 

 

What is Jesus saying? 

 

I can imagine that the disciples heard these words of Jesus and had no idea what it all meant. While you and I sit on the other side of this story, they were watching it all unfold, completely unaware of what the next few weeks was about to hold for them. 

 

I think in this moment, the disciples were looking for reassurance and certainty. So much had happened, that they were confused, a little worn out, and ready for resolution to the conflicts around them. Jesus had been targeted by religious officials. The political leaders had an eye on them. There was pressure all around them. 

 

Have you ever felt that before? 

 

Sometimes in life we can feel pressure bearing down on us from every side. Jesus and his disciples knew what this was like. I’m sure at this point in their time together, the disciples listened intently to Jesus, and at the same time, kept one eye open. Always aware of who was around them, and what the temperature of the crowd was. It was exhausting. 

 

I’ve been there. You know, one of those times when you are done! Tired of watching and waiting. Tired of always looking for an answer - only to keep looking.

 

So when Jesus responds by talking about 12 hours of daylight, and walking and stumbling in darkness, I can feel the exasperation of the moment. It’s the kind of moment that one might be tempted to say, “Really! Can’t you just answer simply. Tell us what is going to happen and what we should do.” 

 

I’ve been in that spot so many times! I’m waiting for an answer. I’ve tried to faithfully follow and do what I know is right. Yet I’m worn out. I don’t see any resolution. Really, Jesus was giving a big picture answer to a specific momentary problem. 

 

So when we get to Thomas’ response, I resonate with him! Listen to what he says in vs. 16 - “Then Thomas said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” 

 

I see him wide eyed, holding his breath as Jesus talks, shoulders slightly raised, as he leans in expecting answers. But then turning to his peers with a sense of sarcasm and frustration - Hey, let us go with him, that we may all die. . . .