WHEN HOPE DIES

When Hope Dies
Darlene Edmondson

“Lazarus, come forth!” (John 11:43 KJV)

How lovely, despite Jesus’ countless rejections, that He found consolation within a handful of friends. One such family lived near Jerusalem named Martha, Mary, and their brother Lazarus. No wonder they welcomed Jesus’ visits. His composure brought peace into their home. A lengthy account in John’s gospel narrates this story and begins like so, “now a man named Lazarus was sick.” 

Hastily, Mary and Martha sent word for Jesus to heal him, but Jesus didn’t come. Days later, Lazarus died. Hope died. Even though the sisters had witnessed Jesus’ mighty miracles, this situation was different. Death seemed, well, final. Now their festive home became scattered with ashes. 

However, just during the gloomiest moment, down the dusty road comes hope, their friend Jesus, walking right back into their lives.
Weeks later, the afternoon sky blackened, Pilate washed his hands of the whole ordeal, and Jesus’ body lay in a borrowed tomb. 

Hope died. 

Paralyzed by intense horror, His followers were in despair, fearing for their own lives. 

But, as shadows deepened into morning light of the third day, right on time, Hope arose from the grave. 

Jesus lives. 

More importantly, Jesus’ resurrection rewrote Eden’s history and revealed God’s eternal plan. So, whoever accepts Jesus, receives the living, eternal Hope. 
Perhaps you are downcast or heartsick today? 

If so, firmly seize courage because Hope will never die. 

God’s love is stronger than death and His light is brighter than any darkness. 

Jesus can heal your brokeness, He is our eternal Hope, defeating death for us so we can live forever. 

“He who believes in Me, though he dies, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25) 
Father, resurrect our forlorn spirits by Your all-consuming love, we give You all the glory. Amen. 

Contact Darlene and find more of her articles HERE.