Focus on God’s Goodness-Jesus Wept

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Focus on God’s goodness is found in John 11:35.

Jesus wept.

This is the shortest verse in the Bible, but it says a lot about the compassion of Jesus toward those who are hurting and grieving the loss of a loved one. Jesus wept by the graveside of Lazarus, and it prompted witnesses of this scene to respond with these words, “See how he loved him!”

We could go through life without experiencing grief, but that would probably mean living without much love for others. Along with much grief, there is generally a history of love and good memories with family and friends. Jesus knew what it was like to grieve because His love for people was very great.

The heart of Jesus sympathizes with us in our times of grief. He has walked the road of suffering. He is familiar with our pain, and is that voice of encouragement to help us in our time of need.

The empathy of Jesus reveals the goodness of God and is a reason to give thanks in the Year of Gratitude.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com