Lord Jesus Christ knew about the illness of Lazarus, and he would die. He would raise him up from the dead. This is evident as Lord Jesus spoke with the disciples. “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4)
Delayed: Lord Jesus did not rush immediately, but stayed two more days, letting the process of death happen.
Dead: When Lord Jesus and disciples reached Bethany, Lazarus was dead and in the tomb for four days. (John 11:17)
Disappointed: Martha went to meet Lord Jesus at the village entrance. Mary was at home. (John 11:20) Martha goes and calls Mary and she also comes to the village entrance. Mary falls at His feet. Both sisters were disappointed that Lord Jesus was not around when Lazarus was sick. However, the Lord spoke about faith and resurrection.
Disturbed in spirit: Lord Jesus was troubled in His Spirit. Seeing the sobbing sisters, Lord Jesus Christ wept. (John 11:35) Lord Jesus rejoiced with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourned. (Romans 12:15) Lord knew that Lazarus would be raised up, yet, he empathized with the distraught sisters.
If Lord Jesus would have gone immediately, Lazarus would have been healed. The miracle of resurrection would not have happened. However, Lord demonstrated the process of mourning as human experience is valid and it cannot be short-circuited. Disease, some are fatal, others terminal is part of the imperfect human world. No one is exempt from any disease. Old age is also inevitable that leads to death. All must die and would be buried or burnt. As a person dies, there will be people who would love him, mourn, cry, weep and feel sad. Like Lord Jesus Christ, people of God should demonstrate their empathy with the bereaved.
Believers could mourn like Mary and Martha, unlike people without hope; yet convinced that Lord Jesus is present in that process and will resurrect those who are dead. (I Thessalonians 4:13)
Do I understand the healthy way of mourning?