There have been many times in my life that I have felt like the leadership over me did not understand the situation those under their leading were facing. I have had coaches that did not understand the specific challenges his athletes were going through. I have had bosses that were unaware of working conditions, or some unique situations that were happening in the factory. I have seen political leaders that I felt were out of touch with the common man. I am so thankful that I have a Savior in Jesus Christ, Who not only knows what we are facing, but has experienced it from a human perspective.
Today I was reading John 11 where Jesus’ good friend, Lazarus, died. Consider these verses with me: “When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, He groaned in the spirit, and was troubled” (John 11:33). “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). “Jesus therefore again groaning in Himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it” (John 11:38). It just gripped my soul to see the honest grief that Jesus experienced at the sight of his friends grieving so much.
I am thankful that Jesus has such an obvious and sincere burden for us, but it also made me think about my own reaction to those who are grieving. I want to make sure that I am not in such a hurry through life that I run past people that I should stop to touch. I want to have a genuine empathy for those who are hurting and do what I can to help them. What a great example Jesus set for each of us as believers!
We are placed on this earth to be salt and light to those who are apart from Christ. Our allegiance to Christ will be seen by how much we love those who are all around us. Our commitment to Him should be obvious as we go through our normal routine. Jesus’ heart was touched, even though He knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead. He knew the outcome, but He also responded very genuinely to the grief of His friends. I am praying that my heart will be sincerely moved today with the needs of those I am around throughout the day.
You were not placed on this earth to fulfill your agenda or plans. You and I are here to be a blessing to others. We are designed to touch the lives of others as Christ would touch them. The language of our heart will be seen and heard far more than a multitude of words. Follow the example of Jesus as you go through this day, and make an eternal difference!