King James Bible
"Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick."
Mary and Martha dispatch a messenger to Jesus rather than coming themselves, indicating both the urgency of Lazarus's condition and their confidence that a simple message would suffice. The formal sending suggests Jesus was at some distance from Bethany, requiring deliberate communication. The sisters address Jesus with the title of respect and authority, then use 'behold' to draw his attention to an urgent matter. This combination reveals their faith in his power while respectfully presenting their need. Rather than naming Lazarus or calling him 'our brother,' they identify him by his relationship to Jesus—emphasizing the personal bond that should motivate action. The message contains no explicit request, trusting that love itself would compel Jesus to respond.