How can we apply Jesus' approach in John 20:15 to our relationships? The Moment at the Tomb “Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?’ Thinking He was the gardener, she said, ‘Sir, if You have carried Him off, tell me where You have put Him, and I will get Him.’” (John 20:15) What We See in Jesus’ Approach • Gentle address: “Woman” expressed respect in first-century speech. • Emotional engagement: He notices her tears before anything else. • Open-ended questions: He invites her to voice both her pain and her search. • Patient presence: He waits for her answer instead of rushing to explain Himself. • Personal revelation: Only after hearing her does He call her by name (v. 16). Principles We Can Carry into Our Relationships • Compassion first – Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” – Tune in to feelings before trying to fix problems. • Ask, don’t assume – Proverbs 20:5, “The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.” – Thoughtful questions draw out the real issue. • Respectful language – Ephesians 4:29 reminds us to speak “only what is helpful for building up.” – Titles, names, and tone matter more than we think. • Give space to respond – James 1:19, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” – Silence can serve as an act of love. • Reveal truth in relationship – Luke 24:31 shows eyes opened after fellowship on the road to Emmaus. – Truth shared within trust sinks deepest. Practical Ways to Live This Out • In marriage: Begin sensitive talks with a tender question (“How are you feeling about…?”) rather than a directive. • With children: Sit at their level, note their emotion (“You look sad—what’s going on?”), then listen. • Among friends: When you notice withdrawal, ask warmly, “I’ve missed you—what’s happening?” instead of assuming motives. • At church: Welcome newcomers by asking their story before explaining programs: “Whom are you seeking today?” • Online: Before replying, pause to consider the person’s hurt or hope behind the post. Seeing People the Way Jesus Does John 10:14, “I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and My sheep know Me.” Pursue knowing over winning, shepherding over steering. When we mirror the Savior’s attentive heart from John 20:15, our relationships become places where tears are noticed, searches are honored, and names are lovingly spoken. |
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