Continuing on our survey of the Gospel of John, we have our third episode with the family of Martha, Mary and Lazarus (John 12:1-11). In episode one, Jesus was called to come heal His then-sick friend, Lazarus. When Jesus finally arrived there, Lazarus had already died, but Jesus promises Martha that HE is the resurrection and the life. In episode two, Jesus weeps beside Mary as He sees the pain of loss in her and those around her. After mourning beside her (as He does with us), He raises Lazarus from the dead (John 11).
Today, Jesus will return to their home after some time away in the village of Ephraim (11:54). It's a thank you banquet in Jesus' honor for raising Lazarus, and we are drawn to decide which of the primary characters we are most like in our relationship with God: are we in it for what we get out of it like Judas, are we working our tails off for God without really spending time with Jesus like Martha, or are we surrendering to Jesus at His feet in worship and thanksgiving like Mary?
To investigate this most important of stories further, go here.