Bulletin Articles
Men Don't Cry - John 11:35
My children from time to time will ask me why I do not cry. Many times, I will respond, without much thought, that “Men Don’t Cry”. This is generational response that many of us were raised hearing. Crying has been perceived as sign of weakness. Is this true?
“Jesus Wept” (John 11:35), the shortest verse in the Bible, yet one of the most profound. In just two words, it reveals the depth of Jesus’ humanity, His love, and His empathy. This simple sentence carries the weight of divine compassion, offering us not only comfort in our sorrows but also a model for how we are to live and love others.
Jesus’ tears came in the context of grief. He was standing at the tomb of His friend Lazarus, surrounded by mourners, overwhelmed not just by loss, but by the pain and sorrow of those He loved. Though Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead, He still allowed Himself to feel the depth of human emotion. He wept not out of helplessness but out of love, for Lazarus, for Mary and Martha, and for all who suffer. His tears were not signs of weakness, but of divine empathy.
What does this mean for us?
First, it means we have a Savior who truly understands us. Jesus doesn’t stand far off from our pain. He feels it. He weeps with us. When we face loss, when our hearts are broken, when life overwhelms us with grief or fear, we do not cry alone. Jesus is not only aware of our suffering, He shares in it. This is the love of a God who does not remain distant but is always close to us.
Second, Jesus' example challenges us to live with greater empathy. In a world that often prizes strength over sensitivity and self-interest over sacrifice, Jesus shows us a better way. He calls us to be present with those who suffer, not necessarily with perfect answers, but with real presence and open hearts. Sometimes the most powerful act of love is just being present.
Empathy is not weakness; it is Christlikeness. When we choose to feel what others feel, when we allow ourselves to be moved by their pain, we mirror the heart of Jesus. Whether it's comforting a grieving friend, walking alongside someone through illness, or simply listening with compassion, we live out the gospel when we love with empathy.
In Summary, Jesus was the greatest man ever to live. He lived a life filled with love and compassion for all those around him and for us. He used his human emotions to connect with so many people. In conclusion, we should not be afraid to show and share our emotions. Our emotions are a blessing from God, not a weakness.
Men DO Cry!
