I’m definitely running behind today.  I like to get this note out pretty much first thing on Friday mornings, but today, well one thing after another, and here I am.  Running behind.  Sometimes it’s frustrating, even when I can’t help it (but sometimes I can…).  And I doubt that I’m the only one it happens to.  Anyway, I got to thinking this afternoon about John 11 and the story of Jesus and Lazarus.  The news of Lazarus’ sickness came to Jesus, yet He stayed put for a couple of days, and by the time He headed for Bethany, Lazarus had died.  Was Jesus running behind?  The disciples thought so.  Martha and Mary, Lazarus’ sisters, actually said so.  Were they right?  It sure seems as if they were.  But wait a minute.  Jesus had already said in verse 4, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God.”  And in verse 15 He stated, “I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent that ye may believe.”  As we read this and the rest of the story, I believe that we see there really wasn’t a delay; Jesus wasn’t running behind; and He sure wasn’t late.  He had a plan and a purpose in His timing.  Notice I said “His” timing.  Not the disciples’, not Martha’s, not Mary’s.  His timing.  When we see the whole story and see Lazarus alive and whole and reunited with his family, we understand that the Lord’s timing was perfect.  Exactly as it should have been.  The disciples and the family should have known better and trusted Him.  But let’s not be too hard on them; aren’t we guilty of the same thing at times?  We get frustrated, impatient, and maybe even angry when the Lord doesn’t act when and how we think He should.  Let’s take a second and learn from this story in John 11.  The Lord is never late; to the contrary – He’s always on time.  So let’s trust Him, patiently wait on Him, and know His will, plan, and purpose in His time are best.  I know it’s easier said than done but trust Him we must.  Okay, I need to wrap this up and get on to other things; I’m still running behind.