Introduction:
The illness of Lazarus is a significant event recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 11. This narrative not only highlights the miraculous power of Jesus Christ but also serves as a profound revelation of His divine nature and foreshadows His own resurrection. Lazarus, a resident of Bethany, was the brother of Mary and Martha, and his sickness ultimately led to one of the most remarkable miracles performed by Jesus.

Biblical Account:
The account begins with a message sent to Jesus by Mary and Martha, informing Him of their brother's illness: "Lord, the one You love is sick" (John 11:3). Despite His deep affection for Lazarus, Jesus responds in a manner that seems counterintuitive, choosing to remain where He was for two more days. He declares, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (John 11:4).

Theological Significance:
The delay in Jesus' response is pivotal, as it sets the stage for a greater demonstration of His power over life and death. Jesus' statement that the illness is for the glory of God underscores the divine purpose behind human suffering and trials. It reveals that God's timing and plans transcend human understanding, aiming ultimately to manifest His glory and deepen faith.

Journey to Bethany:
After the two-day delay, Jesus decides to return to Judea, despite the disciples' concern for His safety. He explains, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to wake him up" (John 11:11). The disciples misunderstand, thinking Lazarus is merely resting, but Jesus clarifies, "Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe" (John 11:14-15).

Encounter with Martha and Mary:
Upon His arrival in Bethany, Jesus is met by Martha, who expresses her faith mingled with grief: "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). Jesus assures her, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23), leading to a profound declaration of His identity: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Mary, too, approaches Jesus with similar words of lament, and her weeping, along with that of the Jews who accompanied her, deeply moves Jesus. The shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35), reveals His compassion and empathy for human sorrow.

The Miracle:
Arriving at the tomb, Jesus commands the stone to be removed. Despite Martha's concern about the stench of death, Jesus reminds her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" (John 11:40). After a prayer of thanksgiving to the Father, Jesus calls out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Lazarus emerges, still bound in grave clothes, and Jesus instructs those present to "Unbind him and let him go" (John 11:44).

Impact and Reactions:
The raising of Lazarus leads many Jews to believe in Jesus, yet it also intensifies the hostility of the religious leaders, who plot to kill Him. This miracle serves as a catalyst for the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, as it demonstrates His authority over death and prefigures His own resurrection.

Conclusion:
The illness and subsequent raising of Lazarus is a profound testament to Jesus' divine authority and compassion. It illustrates the intersection of human suffering and divine purpose, revealing that through faith, believers can witness the glory of God even in the face of death.