Text: John 12:1-11

Our service last night was blessed with the presence of His Spirit as we concluded the mini-series on destroying the Amorite spirit of preeminence. Just as Joshua and Israel rested following their victories, so too will we rest prior to devoting to destruction the next “nation” in the land of our inheritance, the Jebusite spirit.

Today we begin a fortnight respite that will focus on the Resurrection. This being Holy Week, we will use the daily readings from the Revised Common Lectionary leading up to Easter Sunday; next week will review Christ’s post-resurrection appearances.

I was struck by this mental picture: “So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table (emphasis mine)” (John 12:2 ESV) knowing that in the proceeding chapter Lazarus had “reclined” four days inside a tomb. What a contrast for Lazarus, “reclining” in the darkness and solitude of death and then by the power of Jesus “reclining” at a table of light and life. Yet, even being a partaker of the miraculous on no accord of his own, there were those who wished to destroy him, “So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus” (John 12:10-11 ESV).

The truth is as a believer you will have enemies of the gospel, as did Lazarus, that desire to kill you simply for being alive in Christ. For some believers the threat is a physical death (cf. Luke 21:12-16), for others it is a “death” of their influence through false accusations and lies (cf. 1 Peter 4:12-16).

Know that your life as a Christian can cause conflict in this world; know also there will be those used of the enemy that will seek to kill, steal, and destroy that life. Guard your life in Christ today and do not be ashamed of the gospel (cf. Romans 1:16). Pray specifically for your brothers and sisters whose lives are in danger simply because they are believers. Pray protection for them, pray provision for them, and pray peace for them — in Jesus name.