November 15^tH

MINISTRY THAT TOUCHES GOD (Continued)

"Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.

And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.

And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound with a napkin.  Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go."  (John 11:41-44)

     The ministry of Mary brought Jesus into the situation.  Through worship, the people were led to Jesus, and through worship Jesus was moved.  Father was then moved by the obedience of His Son.  Jesus is our Advocate with the Father.  Once Jesus came on the scene, Father had the opportunity to bless.  It is with Jesus Christ, the Son, that Father is well-pleased.  The ministry that touches God results in resurrection life power.  Once raised from the dead, Lazarus enjoyed the kingdom, power, and presence of the Lord.  The same is true for those who have accepted our death with Christ on the Cross.  As Paul said to the church at Galatia, "We are crucified with Christ."  By accepting our death, we can receive His life. 

Continued