When Jesus first learned that Lazarus was ill he said, “This illness will not end in death, but is for the glory of God.” The disciples were still learning about Jesus, and from him. They did not understand all that he did and said. But they believed in him. When Jesus announced he was going to Lazarus, the disciples knew he would have to pass near Jerusalem where the Jewish leaders were plotting to kill him. Thomas says, “Let us also go die with him.” He believed in Jesus before he fully understood him.
When Jesus arrived at Bethany, Martha came out to greet him and lamented that he had not come sooner to save her brother. Before Jesus went to call Lazarus forth from the tomb, he asked Martha, “Do you believe in me?” She said, “Yes Lord, I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who is to come into the world.” She believed in Jesus before he fulfilled her desire. Do we believe in Jesus before we fully understand him, before he fulfills our desire? How do we demonstrate that belief?
