John 11:17-37

The humanity of Jesus immediately strikes the reader of this passage. He fully knows the miracle that will happen, but his heart breaks for his dear friends Mary and Martha. They are devastated over the death of their brother, Lazarus. Both sisters complain to Jesus, "If you would have been here, our brother would not have died." Seeing their pain and anguish, Jesus also weeps.

There are times when God seems silent as we offer up our prayerful lament. Just remember this ... God listens and grieves with us as an expression of his love and compassion.

Here is a 1580 painting by Tintoretto showing Jesus with the sisters.