Jesus and Grief: Thoughts on John 11

John 11 shows us that God understands our grief. Jesus knew Lazarus was going to die. He waited, and then he went to visit his friends, Mary and Martha.
Martha expresses her shock and anger, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (vs. 21)
Jesus does not rebuke her. Instead he answers her questions and reminds Martha who he is.
Martha responds in faith – “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (vs. 27)
Martha leaves and tells Mary that Jesus is there.
Mary repeats what Martha said, but is much more emotional – she falls at Jesus’ feet.
When Jesus sees her weeping, and many of her friends weeping as well, “He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.” (vs. 33) He asks where Lazarus has been placed, and Jesus weeps (vs. 35).
I find it astonishing that Jesus weeps. He is the Almighty God who can do anything. He already knows that God the Father will raise Lazarus from the dead.
But still He weeps. And then He goes to the tomb where Lazarus is buried and calls him back from the dead.
I don’t know what you’re experiencing today, but God does. He not only sees your tears, but He also weeps with you. Tell him what’s on your heart, and trust Him to walk with you through your grief.
At times, Jesus gives us the desires of our hearts. At other times, there is silence. But no matter what, God is there.
If there is something you would like prayer for today, please share your request below. Remember:
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19,20 (NIV)
I shared a companion post today on A Beautiful Life, about how my daughter’s popped balloon reminded me of appropriate ways to deal with grief.
