While Mary and Joseph's time in Bethany on their way to Bethlehem may have been brief and uneventful, Jesus' time there would be extended and very significant. He was there often for important events. Perhaps the most noteworthy of all was the illness, death, and resurrection of Lazarus.
Jesus did not come early. His good friends were anxious and quite disappointed; His followers were confused. "If He could heal a blind man, could He not have kept this man from dying?" (John 11:37)
As the eleventh chapter of John indicates, Jesus arrived at the right time. It was the right time so His disciple would believe. It was the right time to bring comfort to Mary and Martha. It was the right time to affirm His power over death. It was the right time to challenge those who doubted Him. His time in Bethany was the right time.
Our Lord's timing is always right. It may not seem so in the Bethanys of our lives. He may appear to arrive late. He may appear to be indifferent. It may appear His critics are correct and that He is powerless.
But Jesus time remains right. His response always comes from a heart that grieves over our anxiety and sadness. He loves us no less than He loved Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. His victory over Lazarus' death is in anticipation of our experiencing His victory over our death. He continues to do amazing things! His enemies remain no less committed to discredit and dishonor Him.
But this day, in our Bethany, He assures us He loves us; He cares for us; He forgives us; He hears our prayers, and at the right time we will "see the glory of God" (John 11:40b).
THE PRAYER: O Advent Lord, come to our Bethany so we may see the glory of God. Amen.
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