Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Following Christ Even to Death

Bible Reading: St. John 11:5-16

Key verse: " Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble for they see by this world's light" Vs 9

DEVOTION"

The story of Lazarus is often remembered for its miracle of Jesus calling a man out of the grave. But just before that miracle, there is a moment of courage that often goes unnoticed. When Jesus tells His disciples that He is going back to Judea, they hesitate. The last time He was there, people tried to stone Him. It would be a dangerous return.
Yet Jesus is not deterred.
He speaks of light, purpose and timing. And then He says plainly, Lazarus is dead, and He must go to wake him. The disciples are unsure. They do not understand fully. But Thomas, speaks these words: “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”
It is a strange sentence, but beautiful. It shows that following Christ is not always about understanding everything. Sometimes, it is simply about going where He goes, even if the path leads into danger. Even if it leads into death.
To follow Christ means to walk with Him into places that are uncomfortable. Sometimes it means choosing the harder path. It may mean holding onto faith when it would be easier to walk away. It may mean facing loss, rejection, or suffering. But Christ does not call anyone to go where He Himself has not gone first. He leads the way.
This passage invites reflection not just on what Jesus does, but on what it means to go with Him. Not just when the road is bright, but also when it feels dark. Following Christ is not a promise of safety. It is a call to loyalty. It is a call to trust. And it is a call to love Him more than life itself.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, give the courage to follow You, even when the path is unclear. Help faith to rise when fear is near. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The  Cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise god fearing and happy life ,but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ.

Shane Daniel, Bethany Mar Thoma Church, Orangeburg
New York

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