“And Jesus wept. So the Jews said,
‘See how he loved him.’” – John 11:35-36
The
shortest line in the New Testament, “And Jesus wept,” reveals the humanity and
depth of Jesus’ love for his friend Lazarus. He comes “late” to console and to
save. “Late” because God’s timing and manner of acting in the world is not according
to our schedule. God’s ways are not our ways. But Jesus keeps his promise. In
God’s mysterious time and fashion, Jesus acts decisively. He suffers with and
consoles Mary & Martha. He raises Lazarus to new life. I am reminded by the
wise humor of an elderly Irish nun: “God is not on time, but is never late. God
always keeps promises.”
It is not
just for Lazarus whom Jesus weeps, he weeps for us. He grieves with us who
grieves and shed tears with us who cry. Moreover, in solidarity with those who
suffer, Jesus acts. He meets us in our loneliness and pain; he shares in our
confusion. Gradually and mysteriously, his presence transforms the loss of
meaning arising from suffering into new insight and purpose; new hope arises from
despair. God in Jesus suffers for us and with us, bearing new life. God keeps
promises.
For what do you mourn and weep? Invite Jesus to walk with you.
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