Start with the Stone

“Jesus said, Take ye away the stone.  Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh:  for he hath been dead four days.  Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?  Then they took away the stone…. He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.  And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave clothes, and his face was bound about with a napkin.  Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go” (John 11:39-44).

It’s best to start with first things first

And do whatever Christ has said. 

Now take away the stone He cursed

That blocks the path where He has led.

Is there a stone of stubbornness?

Is there a hardened heart of pride?

Is there a root of bitterness?

Are there yet idols that abide?

What stone in standing in the way

Where Christ would show His miracle?

We’re called to trust Him and obey,

And He’ll do the impossible.

We see this principle displayed

Where Lazarus was laid to rest.

Our Savior groaned when they delayed

To take away the stone addressed.

But when they did, our Savior spoke

And called the dead forth from his place.

What joy and awe did this evoke?

What recognition of His grace?

O Lord, is there a stone in us

To be removed before You act?

We would remember Lazarus,

And leave no stubborn stone intact!