Saturday 1 August 2026

Psalm 92

Background
The principal people associated with Bethany were two sisters, Mary and Martha (see also Luke 10:38-42). They are to have key roles in preparing the reader to make sense of Jesus’ forthcoming suffering and death. Mary’s main contribution is trailed in verse 2, and reported in chapter 12. Martha most significantly, and Mary in a minor key, enter into dialogue with Jesus on the meaning of faith, death and eternal life later in this chapter (vs 20-32).

Almost incidentally the reader is introduced to the sisters’ brother, Lazarus, who is unwell. When Jesus heard this news, contrary to all our instincts about what human compassion demands, he did not drop everything to visit Lazarus. He stayed two full days where he was. The delay is explained in what Jesus says in verse 4 – about God’s glory.

‘Glory’ is the loving activity of God, always initiated by God acting in sovereign freedom. God is free of all pressures; God loves equally and fully every human being, whatever their situation or background, simply because that is the way God is. Jesus uniquely embodied God’s freedom and love. God glorified Jesus as he revealed God’s glory.

Jesus loved Lazarus dearly. But Jesus must give an authentic demonstration of God’s glory. He must act in total freedom: he will not be rushed by the news of Lazarus’ illness or anxiety in the hearts of Mary and Martha. And even if the worst were to happen – if Lazarus were to die – this would not be the last word. God’s glory is always the first and the last word. God freely shares with believers, the friends of Jesus, the life and love that are stronger than death.

More widely in John's Gospel, Jesus displayed God’s glory by including in God’s love those excluded by society; people overwhelmed by everyday hurts, disasters, poverty and griefs; and people bent on violence and injustice. Jesus also showed God’s love through family links and friendship (vs 3, 5). Supremely he displayed God’s glory in his death.

To Ponder:

• Reflect on the small number of family members and friends who, in their everyday relationships with you, channel the love, humility and sensitivity of Jesus. Quietly give thanks for them.
• Jesus, ever faithful to the divine Spirit within him, refused to compromise on the practice of love by pursuing his own interests or negotiating deals with the interests of other people. With whose help are you able to retain your integrity as a witness to Jesus? Do you meet from time to time to reflect on successes and failures in living the Christian life in a truthful way?

Prayer
Jesus, like Mary and Martha, I bring my anxieties to your feet. Help me to trust your timing and remind my anxious heart that these trials are not meant to destroy me, but are an opportunity for your glory to be revealed. Amen.