What can we learn from Mary’s immediacy in going to Jesus? Setting the Scene John 11 finds Mary grieving the death of her brother Lazarus. When Martha tells her, “The Teacher is here and is calling for you” (John 11:28), verse 29 records Mary’s response: “And when she heard it, she got up quickly and went to Him.” That simple sentence is packed with instruction for us today. What Mary Did—Five Key Movements • She listened • She rose • She moved without delay • She left mourners and distractions behind • She went straight to Jesus Lessons from Mary’s Immediacy 1. Prompt obedience demonstrates genuine faith • John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Psalm 119:60: “I hurried and did not delay to keep Your commandments.” Mary models the reflex of a heart already surrendered—no bargaining, no procrastination. 2. Sorrow is not a barrier to seeking Christ • Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Instead of nursing grief in isolation, she channels it toward the One who can transform it. 3. Priorities realign when Jesus calls • Luke 10:42: “One thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion.” Previously she sat at His feet to learn; now she runs to His feet for comfort. In both cases, Jesus outranks every other concern. 4. Physical action confirms inward trust • James 2:17: “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Rising quickly, she turns belief into motion. Faith is never merely mental assent. 5. Immediate response invites immediate fellowship • Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” Because she moved at once, she experienced Jesus’ presence sooner—foreshadowing the resurrection miracle she was about to witness. Practical Takeaways for Us • Cultivate an ear tuned to Christ by daily Scripture intake; then act the moment His word intersects life. • In crisis, make your first instinct prayerful movement toward the Lord, not human strategies. • Hold every lesser priority loosely so you can pivot toward Jesus without hesitation. • Translate convictions into concrete steps—call that person, confess that sin, offer that help—now, not later. • Expect that swift obedience opens doors to see God’s power at work, sometimes in ways as dramatic as Lazarus walking out of a tomb. Supporting Scriptures for Ongoing Reflection • Psalm 40:1: “I waited patiently for the LORD; He inclined to me and heard my cry.” Waiting on God’s action still begins with moving toward Him. • Isaiah 55:6: “Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.” Opportunity has a timetable; immediacy matters. • John 12:3: Mary later anoints Jesus’ feet—another quick, costly response. Obedience becomes a lifestyle. Closing Snapshot Mary’s rapid rise in John 11:29 pictures uncluttered devotion—ears open, feet moving, heart fixed on Christ. The invitation is ours: hear Him, get up quickly, and go. |
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