The Church of Lazarus

October 14, 2024 – Larnaca, Cyprus

A wise young woman once told me that nothing happens by chance in this world. She was right—God’s hand is in everything.

It’s 2 a.m. in Cyprus, and Michael and I are still adjusting to the time difference. Yesterday, as we wandered the streets of Larnaca, I found myself deep in thought, speaking to God. Our journey here has been anything but straightforward—our tickets were booked, canceled, and rebooked multiple times. Then, by what seemed like mere coincidence, a friend suggested we travel through Cyprus. When we finally considered this option, everything fell into place seamlessly.

So, I asked myself: Why did God lead us to this little island?

Now, I believe I know the answer. Cyprus, like much of the world, is divided—part Greek, part Turkish; half Muslim, half Judeo-Christian. This division is much like our world and even our own country right now. Yet, despite these differences, every one of us is on a journey, searching for peace, love, and acceptance. We just seek them in different ways. I have found my peace in a relationship with Yeshua Jesus Christ, but that peace has come at a cost.

As I stepped into the beautiful Greek Orthodox Church of St. Lazarus, a realization washed over me: That young lady was right—nothing happens by chance! God knows my heart, my struggles, and the greatest challenge I would face in following Him. He knows there will always be people in our lives who don’t understand—or don’t want to understand—our faith in Christ. And, let’s be honest, “Christians” themselves haven’t always made faith in Christ easy to embrace.

Yet, standing in that church, I found comfort in the story of Lazarus. He was more than just the man resurrected by Jesus—he was His friend. I have often wondered what happened to Lazarus. After the crucifixion of Jesus, around 33 A.D. he fled persecution and came to Cyprus. It was here he lived out his faith and was later commissioned by Paul and Barnabas to minister to the Jewish people there. The very reason he came to Cyprus was persecution, because people wanted him dead. His story reminded me that faith often comes with trials, but it also brings hope and a greater purpose.

Jesus preached love—radical, all-encompassing love. He touched the untouchable, dined with the outcasts, and defied religious norms, all for the sake of love. He called us to love our neighbors, our brothers and sisters, and even our enemies. That is what I want my life to be about—loving those God places in my path, near and far. I will strive to forgive and to be forgiven. I won’t do it perfectly, but I trust in the One who loves me perfectly and unconditionally. He will guide me and give me grace when I need it. My faith in Him is enough!