Why did He cry? This question of Jesus’ tears has been debated by commentators theologically for centuries. For many, who approach these tears from the humanity perspective of Jesus, this gospel has been a source of great consolation. We can relate to the person of Jesus who cries. He feels like we feel. Some of the Jews in this gospel even remark to "See how much he loved him." Who wouldn’t cry at the death of a friend?

Now how can we look at these tears from the divinity of Jesus? Jesus was heading to Jerusalem with a purpose. He states, "This sickness is not to end in death; rather it is for God’s glory, that through it the Son of God may be glorified." He seems to know that he is going to use Lazarus and the situation for a great purpose.

So what made Him cry? Could it be the lack of faith experienced by Martha and Mary? Could it be the jeering he is receiving from those stating that he can heal the blind, why couldn’t he do something here? Is it the fact that some felt that he just didn’t care enough? To be honest, I don’t have any answers for the questions posed. I do, however, feel that these are questions worthy of pondering.

-Father Sean