Soldiers have high commitment to their commanders. One soldier said: “I should die as a martyr for my country. In my funeral, the commander should come and place a wreath on my body and drops of tears from his eyes should drench my body. That would be my ultimate desire, dream and accomplishment.” Interesting but a genuine desire. Commanders are tough, and tears in public is not common. Hence, the soldier’s dedication and achievement should move his commander to tears. Only such feat could invite his boss’ tears. Will a personal loss of a soldier invite such grief and sympathy? However, Lord Jesus Christ wept. (John 11:35)
1) Identification with Humanity: Lord Jesus Christ was fully human and fully divine. Thus, he identified with humanity going through all pain, suffering, grief, rejection, loss and emotional expressions. Like any other human being Lord experienced grief and stood in solidarity with those who grieved.
2) Identification with human misery: Death is a human misery, which is also called as the last enemy or ultimate enemy. (I Corinthians 15:26) Human misery is because of Original Sin committed by first human couple in the Garden of Eden.
3) Compassion over unrepentant: Jesus wept for the unrepentant, stubborn and hardened Nation of Israel, when he saw the city of Jerusalem. (Luke 13:34) Human rebellion and pride breaks the heart of the Lord. Jerusalem in spite of several warnings given by Prophets, did not repent.
4) Cost of redemption: “In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence.” (Hebrews 5:7) Lord had the pay the heavy price of tasting death, experiencing the wrath of God as judgement on humanity that was poured on him. Yes, to bear this he had to suffer, which he did with prayers, supplications, and tears.
Weeping may be for a night. (Psalms 30:5) In this world, we will go through unpleasant happenings that may move us to tears. Yet, we hope and race towards Heaven where there are no tears. (Revelation 21:4)
Do I commit myself to my commander Lord Jesus Christ?