The Lazarus Effect

S - “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 ESV

O - While the real Jesus is clearly able to draw a crowd all on his own, another dynamic is noted here. Lazarus is also a draw for the people. What was it about him that caused such a sensation? What quality of character; what talent or skill set; what amazing feat; what herculean effort would create such an effect? Let's see … he got sick which in itself is such an incredible accomplishment and then … he died. This is his contribution to the clamor his presence inspired. What made him a draw actually wasn't him at all but Jesus. It wasn't his greatness or capacities but those of Jesus which caused and sustained the curiosity and response of the crowd.

A - What if I gave myself to a way of living that would mirror the effect Lazarus had in his day? What if I was so yielded to Jesus and all he already has in mind to do in me and through me that my life became a "sight to behold?" Isn't this really heaven's strategy for every one of earth's 7.4 billion inhabitants?  Didn't he say to the very first followers and to every follower ever since, "Follow me and I will make you …"?  I choose to follow. To give up everything. To lose my life so he will find it, take it, keep it and make of it everything he's dreamt, died and lives for it to be. Simply and completely I say yes to the real Jesus!

P -  Dear, real Jesus,

I admit that you don't love me for anything I have, can do or want to do. Thank you for loving us because you love us. I want to live out loud the following which cooperates with you and everything you already have in mind. I would like to be a reason someone else is drawn to and has confidence in you.

Yes,

Steve