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“When he had said this, He shouted with a loud voice, Lazarus, come out!” – John 11:43 (AMP)
March Madness is here…no, I’m not talking about getting your paperwork organized to finish your taxes. It’s that time of year when fans gather to don the jersey and cheer for the team that matters, theirs. This madness can often take the form of a “comeback” on the court. Let’s face it, we are drawn to them. Maybe it’s because we can identify with being an underdog, or having a past experience we would like to grow from. Even the GOAT, Michael Jordan (sorry LeBron, not even close!), kept the mindset of the comeback. Take a listen. “Twenty-six times I have been trusted to take the game winning shot, and I missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
Comebacks matter to God, as well! Take a look at Joseph in Genesis, Job’s restoration, or Moses’ crime, as examples of God in the renovation business. Let’s be clear. God’s comebacks are always an opportunity to pull the curtain back to God and expose His glory, never ours!
God’s compassion in our set-backs, disappointments, and less than stellar decisions is evident in His persistence to draw us back to confession, repentance, and right-standing. The beauty in the Lazarus story is captivating. I’m guessing that’s why so many “comebacks” are the core of bestselling novels, thrilling movies, and inspiring music. Yes, God’s sovereignty explodes on the pages of scripture through set-backs and returning to Him. Our “stench” may not be the Lazarus stench of death in a tomb, but all sin reeks to the Father. Hand Him the pieces, the missteps, the blunders, and watch what God can do with your brokenness. The “I AM” who parted seas, conquered death, and executes comebacks is waiting for you. Be a Lazarus…come forth to your Father!
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