How can we support others like "many Jews" comforted Mary and Martha? The Moment in Bethany “ And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them in the loss of their brother.” (John 11:19) Lazarus is dead. Mary and Martha are heartbroken. Friends do the most important thing possible in that first wave of grief—they show up. Key Insights from John 11:19 • Comfort begins with presence. The crowd didn’t mail sympathy notes; they walked to Bethany. • Grief invites community participation. Scripture highlights “many,” signaling that comforting the bereaved is a shared responsibility. • The support arrives before Jesus’ miracle. Our task is faithfulness to people, even when we cannot yet see what God will do. Practical Ways to Offer Christ-Centered Comfort 1. Show up physically—or virtually when distance demands. • A quiet visit, a video call, or sitting in the waiting room says, “You’re not alone.” • Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” 2. Listen more than you speak. • Job’s friends erred when they filled the silence with theories (Job 2:13; 4:1ff). • Give room for tears and stories without rushing to fix emotions. 3. Weep with sincerity. • John 11:35: “Jesus wept.” His tears dignify ours. Empathy often comforts more than advice. 4. Provide tangible help. • Meals, childcare, rides, laundry—simple acts relieve mental load (James 2:15-16). • Offer specifics: “I’ll bring dinner Wednesday,” instead of “Let me know if you need anything.” 5. Speak God’s promises at the right time. • Martha needed truth: “I know he will rise again” (John 11:24). • Gently remind the grieving of Christ’s future hope—resurrection, reunion, eternal life (1 Thessalonians 4:14-18). 6. Stay available after the crowd leaves. • Grief lingers long after casseroles are gone. Mark your calendar to check in at three-week, three-month, and one-year milestones. • Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” 7. Carry the burden in prayer and practical partnership. • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: God comforts us so we can comfort others. • Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Other Scriptures that Shape Our Approach • Psalm 34:18—The Lord is near to the brokenhearted. • Isaiah 40:1—“Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. • 1 John 3:18—Love “in deed and truth.” These passages underscore that comforting others reflects God’s own heart and character. Living It Out Today • Keep your calendar open for interrupted plans; grief rarely books appointments. • Budget generosity—set aside funds or time for sudden needs in your community. • Cultivate listening skills now so they’re ready when crisis strikes. • Anchor your encouragement in Scripture; God’s Word outlasts human clichés. Following the example in John 11:19 is beautifully simple: be there, share their tears, meet practical needs, and point aching hearts to the sure hope we have in Christ. |
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