John 11:33-35
When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him?” he asked.
“Come and see, Lord,” they replied.
Jesus wept.
Jesus’ tears show his empathy for others’ grief. We know the end of the story, so we know that Lazarus will soon be back with his family, alive and well. Jesus knows this, so his tears must be for his friends, and their painful grief. At least this is how I understand this story. Empathy can be painful. Who wants to ache with grief? But when I am truly empathic, I truly understand, and can be more sincerely helpful.
Holy Lord, help me to lean into feelings for others, and not back away. Being empathic can be painful, but it helps me to be more generous. Teach me and lead me, Lord. Amen
Becky, transforming