When Jesus Doesn’t Come

[350 words] At separate times, both Martha and Mary said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (cf. John 11:21,32). There are a few ways to understand these grief-stricken words. First, it is likely these were often repeated words around the home: “If only Jesus was here.” It was common sentiment in that household that life was better when Jesus was around. Second, there is an acknowledgment that Jesus has the special power and ability to accomplish feats that others cannot. Third, it seems likely that there is also regret and confusion in these words. When Jesus was so greatly needed, He was not there. Why not? Didn’t He know they needed Him? Did He care? Yet, because they were so confident He loved them, they struggled to understand why He did not do anything about the situation. Why didn’t He prevent the…