Why did Jesus weep at Lazarus’ grave? (A Theological Reflection on John 11)
Jesus waited two days before he left for Judea to visit Lazarus’ family, despite knowing he was sick and about to die (John 11:17). He arrived four days after Lazarus’ death (John 11:6). This deliberate waiting by Jesus could be seen as God’s waiting for humanity to return to him, 4000 years since death entered humanity as a result of their disobedience and curse. At Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus then weeps, perhaps expressing God’s grief about the human condition. In this way, Jesus first expresses God's deep grief from humanity’s separation. Next, he raises Lazarus, restoring immortality and eternal joy to humanity. Lazarus' death and resurrection foreshadow Jesus' own death and resurrection, through which he would bring an end to Adamic exile and raise humanity to new life. In the coming age, he will raise all who believe in him, as he announced to Martha before raising Lazarus. “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, ev...