John 11:32-44
Jesus wept. It is the shortest verse of scripture, but for me the most powerful when it comes to showing Jesus’ humanity. For it is through Jesus’ humanity that we see ourselves in the story of his life and the continued message of his love.
Today we celebrate All Saints Sunday- a moment in the church year where we lift up those names of people who have gone to be part of the church triumphant. They are names of people we’ve wept for, celebrated, and will never forget.
We sometimes ask the question, “Did Jesus really have close friends?” The disciples were there to learn, but they were also his support system, yet he corrected them all the time. The family of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha seem to be an unknown, but had a deep relationship with Jesus.
I have always been captivated by their relationship. Jesus spends time in their home and shares his life with them, enough that when Lazarus dies and Jesus isn’t there for him, he’s heartbroken. It is especially apparent by the responses from Mary and Martha. “Jesus, you could have done something; why were you not here?!” It’s a response we so often have for God or others when we’re in the midst of grieving.
This tender and transformative story shows us what Jesus is like in our most vulnerable states. In the midst of our grief we too weep, ask questions, and demand things that seem impossible. We will not have a loved one come back to life this direct way, but we know that because of Jesus’ promise of new life, our loved ones do have a new start.
This All Saints' we give thanks for having Jesus in our lives. A Jesus who weeps, sits in our confusion, and brings hope in the midst of grief. So, we give thanks for the loved ones who have paved the way in faith, hope, and love. We give thanks for the ways we continue their legacy of faith and light, and we give thanks for the continued story we will carry on for generations to come. There will be weeping, but there will also be resurrection. Amen.
Questions for Reflection:
- Who do you remember this All Saints' Sunday?
- What ways has Jesus walked with you through grief?
Prayer:
Jesus our Redeemer,
Fill us this day with your love and compassion. Whether our grief is recent or long lived, sit with us in it- weep with us. May your promise of resurrection continue to guide our relationships and lives in faith. In your name we pray, Amen.
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