The miraculous sign proved it

"Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. That was the reason so many went out to meet him—because they had heard about this miraculous sign." John 12:17,18 NLT

I couldn't believe my eyes when the door opened. My dear friend and pastor, John, just three weeks after having a stroke, was standing there (in his running shoes!) after having walked unassisted across his living room to personally welcome my daughter and me into his home for a visit with him and his sweet wife, Carole, Saturday. And while this alone was so incredible that I nearly cried, what he shared later nearly brought me to my knees. He was in no pain! And why is that so significant? Because John has been in constant pain since developing lupus a short time ago. But the stroke changed all that he said. "You know, I feel better now than I have in a long time." And added that the doctors expect him to make a full recovery. Now how's that for a "miraculous sign" to show the lost that God is real? 

And you know, there are many things that will happen to us in this life that might cause us to say, "Why Lord?" Mary and Martha might well have asked that question when their brother, Lazarus, died. After all, the sisters had called for Jesus to come and yet Jesus waited. Why? Because God always works things out for our good and for His glory. You see, it’s only because Jesus waited until Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days before coming and calling him to come out, that the people could be witnesses to a miracle. A miracle, the Bible tells us, that spurred the people watching to tell others about this “miraculous sign” that was the reason so many went out to meet Him.

So if you're in a situation that causes you to look up and say "Why Lord?" today too, remember this my friend...  you are not alone and you are not abandoned. God knows your need and exactly the time to provide for it - which is when it will do you the most good and bring Him the most glory. Trust Him. He was, is, and always will be the God of miracles. 

Heavenly Father, thank You the reminder that we will not always understand the reasons we are allowed to suffer but are to trust that Your plan is perfect. When we are tempted to say, "Why Lord?" help us to instead say, "Yes Lord. Your will be done. Use me as an instrument to win souls!" It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God of Miracles - Chris McClarney