Jesus Wept

A favorite memory verse among the Sunday School kids: John 11:35 "Jesus wept." A closer look at this scripture reveals an important revelation; timely as folks celebrate Easter. Jesus is on His way to raise Lazarus from the dead. He has already proclaimed that he is going to do it (verse 23). He has already stated that He is glad He wasn't there to prevent Lazarus' death, because though the situation has turned into an impossibility, that is nothing but an opportunity to Him. So Jesus let this happen? And He is glad? Why? Lazarus resurrection after 4 days is a preparation. Why should it be so hard to believe that Jesus himself can resurrect after only 3 days? Anyhow, we know in John 11:35 that Jesus isn't weeping because His friend Lazarus is dead, He let it happen and planned to raise him. Why the weeping then? He groaned and He wept because of their lack of faith. Now ask yourself, why did Jesus agonize in the Garden of Gesthemene prior to his crucifixion? The Bible says that for the joy that was set before Him, He endured the cross, but then we find Him agonizing in the garden. So in Jesus most notable miracle, He is glad, then he weeps and in His own death, there is joy and there is agony. I submit to you that Jesus gladly laid down His life and knew he was going to take it up again. His agony in the garden was over the unbelief of many: that though his sacrifice was for all, it would be made of none effect for so many through unbelief.

Going back to the resurrection of Lazarus: Jesus tells Martha that her brother shall rise again (John 11:23). She thinks she has it figured out and speaks through limited faith that she knows he will raise again at the last day. Jesus makes a stong statement of truth: "I am the resurrection." Imagine having faith in a future solution when the solution to your problem is standing right in front of you. Jesus says here not "I am going to resurrect Lazarus," no He says "I am the resurrection." Jesus doesn't have the answer to your problem, HE IS THE ANSWER TO YOUR PROBLEM. It isn't about what Jesus can and will do, it it about who HE is! Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you. But the question is will you believe, or will He grieve?