Jesus Wept

"Jesus wept"

Sunday school taught me this was the shortest verse in the Bible.

Reading the story of Lazarus taught me that Jesus was sad when his friend died.

Six days in Hospice House, in December 2011, taught me that Jesus really experienced the “grief of separation” that death delivers.

When Mary brought Jesus to the tomb and dropped to her knees weeping, and Jesus saw those around who were weeping, “He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled” and that is when “he wept”…

John shares that the Jews saw, “how he loved him”.

It is awesome to know in my head, and now heart, that the same Jesus who stated he was “the resurrection and life…and those that believe in him will never die” was the same Jesus who was deeply moved with sorrow, at the sting of death.

To be deeply moved and weep is to be both fully human and holy. How wonderful that my savior, who knew what he was about to do (raise Lazarus), also sobbed with a deep sadness at the loss, separation and grief that death brings to a loved one.

Because of the events that unfolded that day at the tomb of Lazarus; I know that my dad lives… and one day I will see him again…!

- Sean Patty