When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of Him but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 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 12:9-11)

This story always cracks me up. The priests plan to kill Lazarus again, and just hope he stays dead this time. It's like a game of Whack-A-Mole!

But the story does a great job of reminding us why believers in Jesus have ultimate safety and joy. After all, we know that Jesus has died and risen again to release us from the power of death; and some day He will raise us from the dead, body and soul together, and we will live with Him forever in His kingdom. If this is true—and we know it is—then what exactly can our enemies do to us now?

If they kill us, Jesus can raise us; if they imprison us, Jesus can release us. If they cause us pain or grief or suffering, Jesus can stop or turn those things to our good; and in the meantime He is always with us, helping us to bear them. They cannot separate us from Jesus, and Jesus has the ultimate say on what happens to us. So where is our enemies' power now?

WE PRAY: Lord, I know this is true, and yet I have trouble remembering it and relying on You. Help me. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Have you ever had someone hate you because of Jesus or Christianity?

* If so, how did you cope with that person?

* How do you find strength in Jesus when others oppose you?

Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Leviticus 19-20    Mark 9:30-50

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