THE LONG REACH OF A MIRACLE
JOHN 12:9-11 NKJ
JOHN 12:9-11 NKJ
9 Now a great many of the Jews knew that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, 11 because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.
When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, that miracle was a real blessing to Martha and Mary. Those two sisters had their only brother restored to them.
But the effects of that miracle did not stop with the two sisters. The word spread that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after four days. The length of time and the fact that Lazarus was in a sealed tomb made this an indisputable miracle. So, people were coming to see Lazarus, the living miracle. And because of him, many were walking away and believing in Jesus.
This miracle was also the reason for the great turnout for Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We refer to this event as Palm Sunday, and it was fueled by this amazing miracle. People were starting to put together the idea that John the Baptist never did any signs, but Jesus did astounding miracles. So, if there was ever a doubt as to who to follow, it was being put to rest.
Some believed simply by hearing Jesus' words. And some believed because of the miracles He did. Jesus did not do miracles to get attention. He did miracles to reveal His Father and help suffering humanity. But the miracles validated His words and His claim to being the Savior of the world.
APPLICATION:
What has God done in your life that can be a sign, a witness of His reality? Miracles come in all shapes and sizes, but all testify to the goodness of God.
Maybe you have been healed from a bad physical condition or disease. That's a miracle. Maybe your life has been freed from addiction. That's a miracle. Maybe you have changed so dramatically that people are amazed. That's a miracle. Or you have been elevated to a place no one ever thought you would be. That's a miracle.
And the beautiful thing is that your life has been blessed, and others will believe in Jesus because of what He has done in you. There will always be scoffers and doubters but don't let that stop you from sharing about the miracles God has done for you. Miracles have a long reach.
PRAYER:
Thank You, Lord, for the miracles You have done for me. Help me be bold to share what You have done so others can believe.