Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. (John 11v13 NIV)
Isn’t it interesting that even though they actually heard His words and the intonation of His voice, yet they still misunderstood.
There is something in this exchange that is significant.
It would leave a lasting impression on them.
It was as if Jesus was not really talking to them.
Sounded like a conversation with someone else.
They were used to hearing His parables but this wasn’t a parable.
There shouldn’t be any ambiguity with God.
But there was clearly a misunderstanding.
He said one thing and meant something else.
This was recorded for our benefit.
We are meant to ask questions.
We are meant to ask Him questions.
To clarify before jumping to conclusions.
God seems to say things and do things that make no sense to us.
It feels deliberate.
It offends our logic thinking.
It demands more clarity.
He is bigger than our human reasoning.
Jesus didn’t seem too concerned that He momentarily confused them.
Don’t be offended if what God is doing or saying doesn’t fit in with your mindset.
Why did He say ‘sleep’ and not use the word ‘dead’?
He was clearly going to raise Lazarus from the dead.
He did not just wake up after a long nap!
(from ‘Wipe His Feet with Your Tears’ by Warren George)