Though Jesus loved Lazarus, He delayed going to him. “Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when He heard that he was sick He then stayed two days longer in the place where He was.” (5-6) If we believe God’s love demands an immediate response, we will be disheartened. Actually, because He loves us, at times He delays answering us. In this case Jesus delayed His arrival until four days after his death. He told His disciples: “…’Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.” (11b). The disciples assumed He meant literal sleep so Jesus said, “…Lazarus is dead, and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, so that you may believe;…” (14b). Often, what appears as tragedy or illogical, God uses to increase our knowledge of Christ and His power. Jesus moves in the light of His Father’s directives motivated by love for our benefit even in delay. Let’s not be disheartened, but persistent in faith until He arrives!