03/26/2026
Surrounded by death and grief, Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life.”
Read: John 11:17-44
Reflect: The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is one familiar to many people, Christian or otherwise. But look at the response of Martha. Honestly, her first words to Jesus are quite understandable as someone who was a firsthand eyewitness to the very power of Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” This situation is full of death and grief, but look at how our King responds, “Your brother will rise again.” Without hesitation, Jesus gives a completely clear and radical statement, but Martha misunderstands. She thinks he’s making a future promise, but Jesus is making a present declaration. He’s not talking about the future; he’s talking about what he is going to do right then and there to Lazarus. The Son of God is about to display the power at his disposal.
Jesus gloriously declares his identity in gospel summary, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Resurrection power and giving eternal life exclusively belong to Jesus alone. He then says, “Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” This is the gospel of grace, all people are born dead to sin, it is inescapable. By grace, Jesus breathes life into all who believe, and even though believers still die physically, we will rise and live with him forever.
Apply: Like Martha and Mary we all are faced with daily struggles, but Jesus speaks hope into their life. Throughout your day today, especially, when you’re confused, annoyed, down or frustrated, try reciting the words of our Lord in a declarative statement, “Jesus you are the resurrection and the life.” Just wait. In Exodus 14, Moses quite literally tells the Israelites to shut up, and wait on the Lord. Sometimes, like Mary and Martha, we need to quiet the noise, and remind ourselves of what’s true. Jesus is the resurrection and life and we are bound to eternal glory with him forever.
Pray: O God, we confess any angst or sin against you. We acknowledge that we truly only deserved death because of how we lived against you, our Creator. We bow to in gratefulness for the grace that you offered us in Christ. You breathed life into us, and promised us eternity with you. We praise you for your resurrection power! Thank you Jesus, we come to you in your name, Amen.