The story of Lazarus's resurrection is one that I have always felt it represents Africa.
One thing that stands out is that Jesus loved Lazarus (John 11: 3)
I believe God has always loved Africa. In His heart we are His precious token, yet we have not loved him back equally.
Lazarus resurrection is very dramatic in a way. Jesus is told that Lazarus is sick. Jesus responds and says this sickness will not end in death. This seems like Jesus knows something others don't. Rather He says it is this sickness that will bring glory to God.
Africa has been an image of poverty, sickness, illiteracy, etc. It has basically been on life support for too long. What we see as life is not it because the potential is much higher.
Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days when Jesus arrived. (John 11: 17) Do you see the number four. Africa has been sleeping or rather dead for four hundred years now. It seems this cycle of four hundred years keeps on coming back.
But allowing Jesus to resurrect us is the only thing required. Many people want to run away from Jesus but they simply end up living miserably. There is no life outside Jesus.
Martha has thrown in the towel but she acts like a believer. She says Lazarus will resurrect at the last day. (John 11: 24). But she is not aware that Jesus wants people to know who God is by resurrecting Lazarus.
Africa coming back to life in all spheres should be to bring glory to God, not human. Many people want us Africans to work together but they don't mention going back to God. Only the Spirit of God can soften hard hearts and heal us of any bitterness and animosity toward others.
Back to Lazarus, Jesus shows his humanity here by weeping over the state of Lazarus. I believe Gods heart is bleeding by looking at the state of Africa.
Lazarus is already stinking in the cave (tomb) (John 11: 39) Jesus prayer to resurrect Lazarus is very interesting, He says "Thank you Father that you have heard me". It is as if he has been praying long for Lazarus. I believe God the Father is waiting for our cry. Genuine cry not for your immediate family, friends and relatives but the cry for the continent coming from all around Africa. We know he always responds to those who call upon His name.
After Jesus prayer we see Jesus calling forth Lazarus in a loud voice. I just cant imagine the emotional voice of Jesus calling forth a dead man.
Like a man in prison Lazarus was also tied up. He was dead but also tied up like a prisoner.
If you know the limitations that are imposed on Africans you will know we are practically living in a prison.
Jesus commands the people around to untie Lazarus and they do as told. (John 11: 44)
Lazarus is back at home living his normal life but not everyone is happy. I believe the day Africa is flourishing most people will not be happy. Why, because it would be a clear sign of God's doing.
John 12: 10 shows the evil that was in people. They wanted Lazarus dead again only because He was proof of Gods power.
The fact that there is no mention of Lazarus being murdered leaves a good feeling because it means he died a natural death. This to me also is something to celebrate because once Africa rise back to power, I believe no one will ever touch it. It will live a good long prosperous life until the savior comes.
This story is a beautiful prophetic future of Africa. I trust that many people will pray for the continent more than they over did before. If there is any animosity toward you brown brothers, just ask the Holy Spirit to change your heart so that we can work together for the betterment of our land.
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