Scripture John 12:9-11
9 When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well, 11 since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus.
Observation
- Lazarus attracts attention because of what Jesus had done for him – raised him from the dead
- Lazarus becomes a target of the plots against Jesus because of his association with Jesus
- Lazarus’ resurrection led “many’ to believe in Jesus
Application
This little passage about Lazarus reminds me of the cost of following Jesus. Lazarus is drawn into the plot against Jesus because of his association with Jesus but also – and perhaps more importantly – because his experience is causing others to believe in and follow him.
Too often I want people to pay attention to me – to notice what I have done, to be impressed with who I am. Too much of what I do is designed to attract attention and credit. I want to be noticed, to be acknowledged, to be the center of attention (or at least near enough the center to be noticed!).
But Lazarus? He gains attention because of what Jesus did for him – both the notice of the crowds because he was raised from the dead but also the plotters against Jesus because he is causing others to believe.
What high praise indeed to be noticed not for who I am or what I have done but because I point others to Christ. To be in danger not because of what I have done but because of the One to whom to my life points.
Prayer
O Lord of Lazarus, may my life today reveal your power. May others look at me and to me because of whom I serve. Show yourself through me to such a degree that others associate me not with my deeds but yours, not with my life but the life that comes from you. O Risen One, may I be more a Lazarus and less a Randy today. Amen.
