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Building One Another


E. Stanley Ott

JESUS' TEARS, Vol 8 No 13

March 30, 2009

Dear Friend,

We know of two times Jesus wept. Do you know what they are?

Many people know of his tears over the death of his friend of the heart, Lazarus. When Jesus sees Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, weeping over their brother’s death, Jesus is overcome himself, “Jesus wept.” John 11:35*

The other time we learn of Jesus crying is something of a surprise. It happens on Palm Sunday, the day we think of as a day of great celebration. It’s the day the crowds shouted, “Hosanna, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” as they threw palm branches before him as he passed by.

So it’s a bit of a shock to read of that wonderful celebration and come to this report: “As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it.” Luke 19:41

His tears are again an expression of grief, grief that people will fail to recognize God’s coming to them. You can feel his sorrow as he says, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you… and they will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you." Luke 19:42-44

May you and I not miss the joyful reality that the Lord Jesus has come to us. He is as close to you as your next breath. He knows your need and he comes along your side. He embraces you in his love. Embrace him back!

With joy - E. Stanley Ott
Copyright 2009 E. Stanley Ott
*Scripture from the NIV