Scripture reading: John 11:1-44

In reproductive health circles, a maternal near-miss refers to a situation where a woman almost dies but survives a life-threatening complication during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of the termination of pregnancy.

Recently, we had such a near-miss. A client who had undergone an emergency caesarean delivery at a peripheral facility was referred to us because her condition was steadily deteriorating post-operatively. On arrival, we assessed her and found she was bleeding internally. She required massive blood transfusion and urgent surgery. While resuscitating her in preparation for the procedure, her heart stopped. She had to be revived. We nearly lost her.

In the case of Lazarus, he actually died. Jesus’ appointment with His sick friend had been delayed and by the time He arrived, it was four days too late—at least, that was what Mary and Martha thought. The good Teacher had however been intentional in His delay—“that the Son of God may be glorified through it” (John 11:4).

Jesus arrived at His destination to find His friends mourning, and He mourned with them. He was so moved by their loss that He wept (John 11:35). Jesus feels our pain. He knows about our sufferings. But more importantly, He cares. Groaning in Himself, Jesus came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. Then Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”

Four days after a person dies, the body undergoes significant changes due to decomposition. Initially, the body temperature drops and the muscles stiffen due to rigor mortis, which then gradually fades. Internally, autolysis begins, where enzymes start breaking down cells. This is followed by putrefaction—bacterial activity that causes bloating, discolouration, and the release of foul odours. Gases produced in this process cause the body to swell and leak fluids from its openings. That was Lazarus’ state when Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!” And immediately, he who had died came out.

“Did I not say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). Jesus does not miss. But we might narrowly miss out on our miracle if we give in to fear and doubt.

However bad you think your situation is, as putrid or hopeless as it may seem, Jesus can turn it around. Believe. God can use your pain and misfortune for His glory. Hang in there. Bright skies are coming, where dark clouds have been. Glory is coming!

Let’s pray

Thank You for being the God who sees, who feels, and who cares. Thank You for the assurance that even when it seems too late, You are still able to bring life out of death and beauty from brokenness. Like Lazarus, I may face seasons where everything looks hopeless—where the situation stinks and the door is sealed shut—but You are never too late.

Strengthen my faith to believe even when it hurts, to trust even when I don’t understand. Help me not to give in to fear or doubt. Teach me to wait on You with expectation, knowing that Your glory can still shine through my trials. Revive whatever is dying in me—hope, dreams, relationships, purpose—and call it forth to life again.

I yield my pain, my past, and my fears to You. Let Your glory be revealed in and through me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Reflections