Delayed Answers

Delayed Answers

Martha And Mary

Read: John 11:1-6

Janice rubbed her swollen ankle and stared at the clock. What on earth could be taking him so long? she wondered again. When she had called Steve to tell him she’d sprained her ankle, he readily agreed to leave work early. Now there had been more than enough time for him to get home, and the kids were clamoring for dinner. Finally, the back door opened and Steve walked in with a bag from their favorite Mexican restaurant, a bouquet of roses, and a box of chocolates.

The two women in today’s Bible passage also waited and wondered. When their brother became seriously ill, Martha and Mary naturally turned to Jesus for help. The three enjoyed a close friendship with Jesus, who often stayed at their home. The sisters had seen Jesus perform miracles and knew that he had the ability to heal Lazarus. Martha and Mary were heartbroken when Lazarus died soon after the messenger left. As the next few days dragged by, their grief must have mingled with disappointment and confusion at Jesus’ delay in responding to their message.

God’s children naturally cry out for his help in times of sudden trouble or sorrow. We know that he loves us enough that he died for us. We also know that he has the power to control any situation in our lives. But when he doesn’t respond to our pleas right away, we may become confused, despondent, angry, or bitter.

It’s hard to remember that God has a plan and that he will answer our prayers according to his timing. When his answer comes, it is often better than what we requested. Jesus delayed in responding to Martha and Mary’s message because God had something far greater than a healing in mind. When God seems slow to move in our situations, we can be sure that he has something greater in store for us.

The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

Romans 15:4