FRIDAY 15th MAY 2020

Good morning friends,

The 5th of the I AM saying of Jesus is found in John 11 : 25-26

“ Jesus said to her, “I AM the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will live, even though they die; and those who live and believe in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

These words are spoken to Martha after the death of her brother Lazarus. Martha was upset because she felt that if Jesus had come sooner when Lazarus was ill, he would not have died. But she still believes that God will give Jesus whatever he asked, such was her love and trust, that Jesus was the Messiah.

And, we know that when Jesus went to Lazarus tomb, that he called his friend forth, and Lazarus came out raised to life once more.

Of course this was not the first time Jesus had spoken of new life for those who believed in him.

Early on in John’s gospel he speaks of this to Nicodemus, uttering the words which some have said sum up the whole gospel. “ For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.”

Nor, was Lazarus the first person Jesus raised from death. Jairus daughter, and the widow of Nain’s son were also brought back from death.

All of these events were signs of what was to become available for all those who believed in Jesus.

The words Jesus spoke to Martha will be familiar words to any who have attended a Christian funeral, and I have spoken then many times over the years at the graveside, or Crematorium. I have spoken them too often when sitting with those who are dying, for they are such words of encouragement and hope, as they make the passing from this life into the next.

But,....................... we don’t have to wait till we are at death’s door for these words to resonate with us. For Jesus who is the embodiment of Resurrection and Life has come to bring us life, life, in all its fullness. So, the promise it that we can enjoy the benefits of eternal life, from the very moment we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. There is nowhere too far way that Jesus voice cannot call us to new life.

Good news? You better believe it!!!