I have to admit that I find some parts of this story unsatisfying. Jesus speaks to the disciples in a confusing and misleading way, telling them at first that “this illness does not lead to death,” (John 11:4) only to act like they’re slow on the uptake moments later when he tells them metaphorically that Lazarus is “sleeping,” and then “plainly,” that  “Lazarus is dead.” (11:11, 14) Jesus waits two days before setting out for Bethany, (11:6) delaying while Lazarus suffers, putting Mary and Martha through grief and pain—seemingly so that he can prove a point to the disciples about his own power. “I was glad that I was not there,” Jesus says, “so that you may believe.” (11:15) He was glad that he was not there?