Devotions

scene is set in the house of Simon the leper in Bethany. Christ was the special guest, the central figure in the midst of His people. Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table. A previous verse tells us that Lazarus “had been dead,” but adds that he had been “raised from the dead.” Now he was seated with Christ. What a vivid portrayal of the experience of the child of God.

Once dead in trespasses and sins, we have been quickened by Christ. That quickening has resulted in union with Him. We are one with Him and thus are accepted in Him. We have a perfect legal standing before God, described in Ephesians 2 as being seated together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Lazarus’s position not only reminds us of that, but also shows us that if we are in union with Christ, we will delight to sit in His presence. Lazarus obviously wanted to be with the One who had given him life. He who has no desire for Christ’s fellowship has no warrant for believing that he is in Him. A yearning to sit “at the table with Him” is a token of spiritual life. A living man eats. How is your spiritual appetite today? Are you feasting on the Living Bread? Are you supping with Him? Do so, for it is only from Christ that the sustenance your soul needs can be drawn.

In the Beloved accepted am I,

Risen, ascended and seated on high,

Saved from all sin thru His infinite grace

With the redeemed ones accorded a place.