It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.

Hebrews 9:27

Only a handful of people in the Bible were raised from the dead and had a second chance at life in this world. The raising of Lazarus is the most memorable. His was an irrefutable miracle. Jesus raised Lazarus to life again after four days in a tomb, wrapped up like a mummy. Ironically, because so many Jews were now believing in Jesus as the promised Messiah, the religious leaders made plans to kill Lazarus as well as Jesus (John 12:9-11).

We don’t need or want a second chance at life in this world. Like Martha, we believe Jesus’ promise, “I am the resurrection and the life … everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die” (John 11:25-26). We know by faith that the One who raised Lazarus from the dead will raise us also on the Last Day to a new and eternal life in heaven.

Gil Duchow
Muskego, WI

Lord Jesus, we are eternally grateful for Your sure promise to us, “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19). Amen.

Reflect: Rejoice that your eternal future is sure. Share your confident faith with someone who is unsure.

Read: John 11:17-27, 41-44 and John 12:9-11