One day a messenger was sent to Jesus with a request from His friends, Mary and Martha, asking Him to come to the city of Bethany. Their brother Lazarus, who was also one of Jesus’ dear friends, was very sick and Lazarus’ sisters were asking Jesus to come quickly to heal him.

When Jesus heard the news, He said that the sickness wouldn’t end with death, but that it was for the glory of God. He then waited two days before going to Bethany. By the time Jesus arrived, His friend Lazarus had already died and had been buried in a cave used as a tomb. Mary and Martha were very sad. Jesus, too, was sad for Mary and Martha, but He comforted them and said, “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25 NKJV).

Jesus went to the place where Lazarus had been buried and asked the men to push aside the large stone that covered the entrance to the tomb. Once they had removed the stone, Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” (John 11:43 NLT).

Immediately, Lazarus came out of the tomb—alive! It was a miracle and many believed in Jesus.

You can read the full story in John 11:1–45.