Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
August 9, 2022: SOAP #4632: Jeremiah 3-4; John 11

SCRIPTURE: John (NIV) 11:43 When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

OBSERVATION:  Lazarus was dead!  Everyone was sure he was dead.  The funeral was over, but the grieving continued.  He had been buried for four days.  But he was not so dead that he could not hear the voice of Jesus!   It was just his body that was dead.  His spirit was very much alive!  His spirit recognized his name and who it was that was calling.  His spirit recognized the authority in that call.  It was a call he could not ignore; he had to return. 

What seemed hopeless, was not hopeless.  What seemed so final, was not final.  The body was dead, but life continued.  Those who had lovingly and carefully prepared the body for burial now had to undo their work. 

APPLICATION: There are many things in life that seem final, but not to those who know God!  Things thought impossible become possible when God gets involved.  It is His specialty!  It is His way of leaving His calling card that says, “God was here!!!” 

I remember my dad and mom singing: 
   “Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?
   Got any mountains you can’t tunnel through?
   God specializes in things thought impossible
   And He will do what no other power can do!”

PRAYER:  Lord, you are the miracle worker.  You are the impossible doer.  You have told me to come in faith and ask you.  You often use others to meet my needs.  Forgive me for taking my eyes off you and looking to those who have previously helped to meet my needs. My struggle can be your opportunity to demonstrate your unlimited ability! Amen

Pastor Leon
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