The chapter we have now begun is one of the most re- markable in the New Testament. For grandeur and sim- plicity, for pathos and solemnity, nothing was ever written like it. It describes a miracle which is not recorded in the other Gospels, — the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Nowhere shall we find such convincing proofs of our Lord's Divine power. As God, He makes the grave itself yield up its tenants* — Nowhere shall we find such striking illustra- tions of our Lord's ability to sympathize with His people. As man, He can be touched with the feelings of our infirmi- ties.— Such a miracle well became the end of such a min- istry. It was meet and right that the victory of Bethany should closely precede the crucifixion at Calvary.
These verses teach us that true Christians may be sick and ill as well as others. We read that Lazarus of Bethany was one " whom Jesus loved," and a brother of two well- known holy women. Yet Lazarus was sick, even unto death ! The Lord Jesus, who had power over all diseases, could no doubt have prevented this illness, if He had thought fit. But He did not do so. He allowed Lazarus to be sick, and in pain, and weary, and to languish and suffer like any other man.
The lesson is one which ought to be deeply graven in our memories. Living in a world full of disease and death, we are sure to need it some day. Sickness, in the veiy nature of things, can never be anything but trying to flesh and blood. Our bodies and souls are strangely linked together, and that which vexes and weakens the body can hardly fail to vex the mind and soul. But sick- ness, we must always remember, is no sign that God is displeased with us ; nay, more, it is generally sent for the good of our souls. It tends to draw our affections away from this world, and to direct them to things above. It sends us to our Bibles, and teaches us to pray better. It helps to prove our faith and patience, and shows us the