The text concerning the death and raising of Lazarus was at the forefront of my mind as I was writing my most recent sermon. Why would the one who is the beginning and the end cry.The bottom line is that Jesus loves us and is in touch with our humanity ! Jesus crys with us and for us. Like Mary and Martha in the text we must rush to Jesus. Jesus asks us where have we buried our faith as he asked the sisters where they have buried him(Lazarus). Like the sisters we should say "come and see' where we have laid him ".Wow. let Jesus see where you have buried your faith, Then Look up ! Jesus says "didn't I tell you if you believe you will see the glory of God. Keep believing, hold on to your faith, keep believing and we shall see the glory of the Lord.That is the truth ! Perhaps, you buried your faith at the gravesite and death of a loved one, or upon a diagnosis or prognosisi of a doctor, or in a court room or school room.Wherever you left it, show Jesus and believe and YOU will someday see the glory of God, just wait on the Lord ! He may not come when you want to, but he comes right on time.It's in the text !
In the book Reversed Thunder “The Revelation of John & the Praying Imagination”, Eugene H. Peterson writes a remarkable analysis and interpretation on the biblical text Revelation. Historically, the book of Revelation has been described as difficult to interpret by theologians. Consequently, preachers and teachers of the bible have tended to ignore or avoid this segment of scripture. In stark contrast, those who choose the difficult task of interpreting this text have diverse and drastically different opinions. However, Peterson with powerful vivid illustrations and analysis opens and simplifies the interpretation of Revelation to his readers. This book is a must read for any preacher, teacher and scholar of the Holy Writ. Specifically, I highly recommend this book for any reader of Revelation, who has been bombarded with confusing and confound translations of this remarkable text. Peterson defines revelation and apocalypse at the outset of his book. “St. John’s word for what he ...
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