How can we support others in their "deeply grieved" moments like Jesus? Opening the Word “When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. ‘Where have you put him?’ He asked. ‘Come and see, Lord,’ they answered. Jesus wept.” Jesus Models Compassion • He comes close—Jesus does not keep a safe distance from grief. • He observes—He sees the tears of Mary and the mourners. • He enters the emotion—“deeply moved in spirit and troubled.” • He asks a practical question—“Where have you put him?” showing intent to act. • He shares their pain—“Jesus wept.” Practical Ways to Imitate Christ 1. Show up • Presence often speaks louder than words (Romans 12:15). 2. Listen and observe • Notice their words, tone, and body language before responding (James 1:19). 3. Feel with them • Allow your heart to be moved; empathy is not weakness but Christlikeness. 4. Offer gentle words • A simple “I’m here” can mirror Jesus’ tender approach (Proverbs 15:23). 5. Meet tangible needs • Bring a meal, run errands, or handle small tasks—mirroring Jesus’ request to see the tomb, then raising Lazarus. 6. Pray privately and, when invited, with them • Jesus prayed aloud at the tomb (John 11:41-42); we can lift the grieving to the Father. 7. Stay available • Grief lingers; remain accessible after the crowds thin out (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Additional Scriptural Anchors • Isaiah 53:3—He is “a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.” • Hebrews 4:15—Our High Priest sympathizes with our weaknesses. • Luke 7:13—Jesus’ compassion for the widow at Nain moves Him to act. • Romans 12:15—“Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” Living It Out Together Grief invites us into sacred space. When we step in with Christ-like presence, empathy, and action, we do more than comfort—we reveal the compassionate heart of the Savior to those who hurt most. |
    |