In this week’s story from John 11:1-45, we hear a story about Jesus and three of his closest friends. Mary, Martha, and Lazarus lived in Bethany, just outside Jerusalem. When Jesus comes to Bethany, he always visits them, and sometimes stays at their home. The author of the gospel of John places this story just before Jesus goes to Jerusalem, and the last days of his life.

Now Lazarus became ill, very ill. Martha and Mary sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was ill. They thought Jesus would want to know, probably even come to see Lazarus. They waited and waited. No sign or word from Jesus. Lazarus got sicker and died. Martha and Mary were so sad. Four days after Lazarus had been buried, Jesus showed up. Martha went out to greet him, but Mary stayed in the house where many guests had come to comfort them. Martha hurried to Jesus and said, “Why didn’t you come right away when you got our message? Martha even expresses her belief that Jesus still can do something for her brother but she is not sure if the action will take place on this day. “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.  But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” “Your brother will rise again,” said Jesus. Jesus’ amazing act – raising Lazarus from the dead – demonstrates that God is more powerful than death.

Each member of our group has probably experienced endings that have left them sad and disoriented. Some will know the very painful experiences of divorce and death. Others may have experienced the end of friendships, the loss of a much-loved pet, or the end of the familiar environment of one school to attend another. This week’s reading from the gospel of John, which initially explores the pain and grief of the death of a beloved brother and friend, moves on to affirm that God is in control, even in this situation. We will have the opportunity to explore questions like, why did Jesus wait so long? Why did he put his friends through such pain and grief? How could Lazarus actually come alive again? And we will be reassured that God is with us in difficult times, as Jesus shared the sadness of Mary and Martha.

All children and youth are welcome to join us for Bible story time and activities on the 2^nd floor after the time of conversation with the pastor. The group will come back to the church to take Communion. Childcare is available for children 4 and under on the 2^nd floor as well.