Entered In
To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer.
Open your time by reciting these words:
Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Lectio (Reading)
Take a moment to read John 11 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:21-26
Meditatio (Meditation)
At one point or another, we've all questioned God's timing. He seems distant and aloof. He doesn't show up when we need Him. He fails to intervene in a situation. And we're left scratching our heads and wondering, "WHY?" In moments of questioning God's timing, we echo the struggles of biblical figures like Mary and Martha awaiting Jesus's help for their dying brother, Lazarus. Expecting immediate intervention, they grappled with doubt as Jesus delayed, seemingly indifferent. With every minute that passed, an internal wrestling match took place in both Mary and Martha. And as they witnessed Lazarus pass, frustration, cynicism, and doubt met their tears. Why would Jesus wait? Did He not care? Yet, when Jesus finally arrived after Lazarus's passing, He revealed a greater purpose: to deepen belief in His power and give a visible example of Him serving as the “resurrection and life.”.
God's timing transcends human understanding. Despite our frustrations, God's “delays” serve a higher plan, ultimately showcasing his glory and fostering trust. As demonstrated in Lazarus's resurrection, God can breathe life into seemingly hopeless situations, manifesting his power and reinforcing faith. Amidst uncertainty and waiting, we're called to trust in God's perfect timing, recognizing that every circumstance can ultimately serve a greater purpose. Faith invites us to surrender control and believe that God's plan unfolds precisely as it should, leading to renewed hope and deeper faith in Him.
Take a moment to reflect on the words you have read. Consider the characters in the story. How do you relate to their experiences? Reflect on any areas of your life where you may be experiencing grief, loss, or longing for renewal.
Contemplatio (Contemplation)
In the poignant moment before Jesus resurrected Lazarus, John's Gospel includes an interesting detail: Jesus, despite his divine power, was deeply troubled. He wept, not just for Lazarus, but for the brokenness of our world and the shattered hearts surrounding him. This display of empathy showcases Jesus' willingness to enter into our pain and suffering. Even as Jesus stood on the brink of performing a miraculous resurrection, He didn't shy away from the grief and anguish present. His tears remind us that God's goodness isn't just found in grand miracles but in His unwavering presence amidst our struggles. Jesus didn't wait for Lazarus to rise to show his goodness; He was already there, embracing the sorrow and anguish of those around Him. The greatest gift of God's goodness is His presence. Whether we're experiencing abundance or facing utter despair, God walks alongside us, offering comfort and strength. In a world marred by brokenness and pain, the assurance of God's companionship is a beacon of hope. It's a reminder that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, we are never alone.
Take a moment to ponder the examples of God’s goodness and presence in your life.
Actio (Action)
Jesus didn't stand at a distance when Lazarus was in the tomb. No, He wept with Mary and Martha. He entered into their pain, and that's what mutual concern calls us to do. We don't merely acknowledge one another's struggles from afar; we step into the struggle and sadness with our friends when they're going through tough times. But it's not just about being there for others. It's about inviting others to be there for us when we face our battles. We don't have to go alone when we're in the thick of life's challenges. Yet, tough times aren’t the only place where mutual concern should shine. When someone in our community experiences joy, we celebrate with them. We don't just offer polite congratulations; we genuinely rejoice because their joy is ours. This shared joy amplifies the bonds of unity and reinforces our sense of belonging to a loving and supportive family. To practice mutual concern, we need to cultivate humility. We must lay aside our pride, recognizing that unity requires a collective effort. This practical, everyday expression of love sets us apart as followers of Christ. As we embody mutual concern in our lives, we become living examples of love that unite us and point the world to Christ's love's transformative power.
Take a moment to consider how you can actively practice mutual concern in your daily life.
Oratio (Prayer)
Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:
God, I will trust, even when I want to question. I will display faith, even when I have to urge to take over. I’ll do all of this because I know You are faithful. Help me to remember your presence amid pain. May I live out Your profound love in my daily life, stepping into other's struggles with compassion and vulnerability. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.