Shadowing Jesus, Part V
Lenten Series:“Signs of Life”
Sunday, April 2, 2017
Woodstream Church
John 11:39-44
Medically trained First Responders are trained to look for and monitor signs of life, such as a heart beat and breathing. Properly reading vital signs and a timely response can be the difference between life and death. It was for us to understand the mighty, convincing signs of Jesus’ ministry that John wrote his gospel, that we may choose between eternal life and death.
Know Your God-Given Work Schedule. Jesus not only knew what to do, but when to do it. Everyone expected Jesus to immediately come to heal Lazarus. But it was not the time for healing, but for resurrection, prefiguring the death and resurrection of Christ. Jesus knew His God-given work schedule, as we should know ours.
Know Who You Are Working For. All things should be for the glory of God. No sacrifice is too great, no hurt too painful, no disappointment too crushing and no failure too painful to throw in the towel, walk out and quit on God. Christ did everything to please the Father, and so should we.
Recognize Jesus’ Call Travels. Jesus called out to Lazarus in a loud voice, carrying from Bethany to Sheol Paradise. You may feel too far away to be called, but you are never to far to hear Jesus’ call to perform a vital service for the Lord.