Jesus Wept

   “And Jesus Wept” (John 11:35)

   When Jesus was first told that Lazarus was ill He delayed going to him, saying, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” (John 11: 4).

   By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany Lazarus had been dead for four days.  He had the stone sealing the tomb removed prayed to the Father and “…he cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!” (John 11: 43)   And Lazarus’ life was restored to him.

   Our Lord knew what He was going to do before He went to Bethany.  He knew Lazarus would die and that He would raise him from the dead.  Others were raised from the dead by Jesus throughout His ministry, but this is the only time when it is recorded that He wept.  Why did He weep?  He was about to raise Lazarus from death.

   Perhaps He wept not for Lazarus but because of death itself.  We were never intended to die, but to live in companionship with God for all eternity.  Through the temptations of Satan and human weakness the sin of pride brought death into the world.  We wanted to be like God, assuming the right to define good and evil.  In this desire we rejected God.  Only He can determine right from wrong, good from evil.

   During this Lenten season we are to meditate and consider the great suffering and horrible death our Lord endured for us.   I think it vital that we realize that the prideful sin of our first parents and our own sins caused His suffering and death.  Jesus, forgive us for our sins!

Lord You are all good.

Only You determine right from wrong.

Our pride cost the life of Your Son.

Forgive us Lord!

Amen