Shared Tears

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. - Romans 12:15

A story was told about a little boy with a big heart. His next-door neighbour was an older gentlemen whose wife had recently died. When the youngster saw the elderly man crying, he climbed up onto his lap and simply sat there.

Later, his mother asked the boy what he had said to their saddened neighbour.
"Nothing," the child replied. "I just helped him cry."

Sometimes that is the best thing we can do for people who are facing profound sorrow. Often, our attempts to say something wise and helpful are far less valuable than just sitting next to the bereaved ones, holding their hand, and crying with them.

One of the ways we can help our fellow believers is to "weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15). Jesus demonstrated that principle when He visited Mary and Martha after /lazarus died. Sensing the depths of Mary's despair over her brother Lazarus's death, Jesus shared her grief by weeping (John 11:35). Bystanders took note and said, "See how He loved him!" (John 11:36).

Sometimes the best thing we can do for those who are travelling life's most sad and lonely road is to "help them cry." Jesus showed us that it's important to share another's tears. Is there anyone who needs your tears today? -Dave Branon

A heartfelt tear can show our love

As words can never do;

It says, "I want to share your pain -

My heart goes out to you." -D.De Haan

A sorrow shared is a sorrow halved.

(Extracted From "Our Daily Bread" - week 3 Monday)