Jesus called out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” ~ John 11:43 (NIV)
People were amazed when Jesus spoke those powerful words, “Lazarus, come out.” Even though he was dead and in the grave for four days, Lazarus responded to the Lord’s call. On that day Jesus revealed his power as true God, as well as his power over death and the grave. It is this power which is a comfort and blessing for me.
One of the greatest fears I have is death. Whether it is the finality or the uncertainty, I try to rid myself of the thought. No matter how hard I try, the fear of death always holds me captive. My only hope to be free from fear is to look to Jesus. He gives me the assurance death will not hold me in its grip. Once I leave this world, I can have every confidence he will speak the same words he spoke to Lazarus, “Come out!”
It is this reassurance which allays my fears and calms my troubled heart. Through faith in Jesus as the Son of God and my Savior, I know he will never abandon me to the grave. I can live every day knowing death becomes a new beginning. At the end of this earthly life I will receive a new life with my Lord in heaven. Still, this is not the only reassurance I receive.
Through the powerful working of the gospel, Jesus also expresses his will, “Come out of this dark world and live in the newness of life.” “Come out of sinful selfishness and live in selfless love.” “Come out of the hopelessness of death and live with confident joy.” Because of faith in what Jesus has done for me, I can come out of a life dominated by death’s control. I can come out of a life subjected to Satan’s dreadful tyranny. I can come out of a life of hopeless fear.
So much is mine for this life, and for the life to come, through faith in Jesus Christ. How blessed I am to hear my Savior’s call, “Come out!”
Dearest Jesus, you have power over life and death. Come with your power to release me from death and the devil. Come with your power to give me new life and the hope of heaven. Amen.
Living Hope Church 