"LET'S NOT CONFUSE OUR BELIEF WITH FACTS"

Reading: John 12: 1-11

On this Monday of the week in which Jesus is crucified, We find him in Bethany, a mile or so from Jerusalem, a short walk along the road in front of the temple, past the Garden of Gethsemani and over the Mount of Olives. Jesus spends an evening with his good friends, Mary, her sister Martha, and their brother Lazarus.

We are told that the chief priests planned to kill Lazarus as well as Jesus. More people were believing in Jesus since he raised Lazarus from the dead. Some Jews who had witnessed the raising reported it to the authorities. Instead of seeing this as a strong proof of the authenticity of Jesus as Messiah, they chose to remain blind and do away with both Lazarus and Jesus.

This is an example of people rejecting faith, even in the face of visible facts. The authorities believed the report of the raising of Lazarus. But they had already made up their minds to reject Jesus. People will not accept what they do not want to accept, no matter what proof they are shown. They will even go to extremes to justify their rejection. Satan knows with absolute certitude that there is a God, but refuses to acknowledge him. That is the attitude of hell. No matter what God does, the person willingly closes his eyes.

Le us believe strongly in Jesus, and let our belief move us to do good works. Let us never neglect acting upon our faith. For if we do, it will wither and die - and you and I will become like those who are still seeking and attempting to kill God.