Taking Off the Grave Clothes

John 11:44 b NIV
...Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

When it comes to the transforming power of God working in someone’s life, God often uses people to bring about divine life-change. The story of Lazarus in John 11 illustrates it was the power of Jesus’ prayer and spoken word that resurrected Lazarus from the dead – but the disciples played a role in this miracle too.

Lazarus was bound hand and foot with grave clothes and his face had been wrapped with a cloth during his time in the tomb. When he arose from his death and came out of the tomb, Jesus called on the disciples to help in the transformation process. Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go." The disciples needed to help Lazarus. Likewise, we all have a part to play in the lives of those around us.

God has done some incredible things around us during the fast. Could it be that someone around you is still walking around in grave clothes? What do you need to help them let go of?

Who in your world is still walking around in grave clothes? Think about friends and family or those around you who may not know God. What part has God called you to play in the life change He wants to bring?

by Stovall Weems
Lead Pastor
Celebration Church