John 12

9 Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.

 11 Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

18 For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.

These scriptures highlight the role that an average man, who had an intimate relationship with Jesus, had in bringing others to meet Him. The multitudes came not only to see Jesus but to also see Lazarus, one whose life was given back to him.  It was, to me, as if they wanted to affirm Jesus' power by seeing one who was like them who had been transformed.    

We are all a bit like Lazarus.  We were dead in our sin.  Some were even buried by our loved ones, given up on; considered a loss cause.  But, then, Jesus walked in and the stone of our grave rolled away.  He spoke and our bindings were loosed. 

Once we are touched and changed by His Word, others will notice.  Once they notice it is imperative that we continue to behave in a manner that will still attract others to Him.  Once we leave the grave and slough off our stinky, old grave clothes, habits and attitudes, we must strive to live a life that is worthy of the reputation we assume when we take on His name.  

People we once knew will come to see this new Lazarus who was given a new chance at life.  They want to see if his life was truly changed.  As they come to marvel at our new life, let us then introduce them to the one who gave us this great gift, Jesus. 

Keith G. Mathews