In this sermon, the author considers Jesus’ raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-45). Focusing on the awkwardness of Jesus’ deliberate delay in coming, the sermon asks whether rewriting the incident to make Jesus appear more caring is advisable. No, rewriting the incident would undercut three lessons in the story as written. First, Jesus’ chief concern was with God and his glory. Second, Jesus revealed more about himself, namely, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Third, Jesus wanted to deepen the faith of Lazarus’ family, friends, and his disciples then and since.
About the Author
Dr. Jackie Smallbones is a native of South Africa and an ordained minister in the Reformed Church of America. She teaches biblical studies, Christian education, and Christian spirituality at Northwestern. She is the author of Keeping Company with Jesus: Reflections on Gospel Stories (Augsburg Books, 2005) and Knit Together: Many Colors, One Life (2014). She also has written articles for Christian Education Journal and Church Herald. She occasionally presents seminars and leads retreats on such topics as teaching, Christian spirituality and spiritual disciplines. Prior to joining Northwestern’s faculty, she taught at a college and seminary in South Africa.