Jesus Wept

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansbury is one of my favorite books and movies. Although I have yet to see the Broadway play, I am confident it will also make my favorite list. A Raisin in the Sun is a classic story of a 1950s working-class family that believes the American dream is finally within reach. A life insurance check offers the promise of home ownership, a college education, and even money in the bank. As it often happens, though, the family has differing ideals on defining the American dream.

The matriarch, Lena, encourages her adult children, Walter Lee and Beneatha, to remain steadfast and hold to their Christian values. Lena’s concerns are warranted. The thought of access to money has driven a wedge between family members. The sibling’s arguments escalate in one haunting scene, with Walther Lee storming out. Beneatha, dripping with disdain, disavows her brother and admits she no longer loves him.

The next scene always brings me to tears. Lena passionately questions Beneatha, “Have you cried for your brother today? I don’t mean for yourself or for the family because we lost the money. I mean for him. Think about what he has been through. Think about what happened to him today. When should you love somebody the most? It’s when a person is at their lowest. The world hasn’t treated Walter Lee right. When you judge a person, measure them right. Make sure you measure the hills and valleys in their life.”

Beneatha’s character is consumed with her dreams. She has no patience for nonsense and little sympathy for others who cause their own problems. Like the world today, Beneatha lacks empathy. As believers, we are called to distinguish ourselves from the world. Bible verses like Romans 12:15, Philippians 2:4, and Ephesians 4:2 instruct us to empathize with one another. John 11:35 is the shortest yet the most impactful verse on empathy. Jesus wept.

Overcome with compassion and empathy for Martha and Mary, whom He loved, Jesus cried for them and with them. Of course, only Jesus knew He would raise Lazarus, but at that tender moment, He allowed Himself to sit in their pain. He knew the agony they felt watching their brother die. He heard their pleas for Him to return to Bethany and save Lazarus. He felt their grief while they mourned him for four days. Jesus accepted Maratha’s anger towards His late arrival. Jesus wept.

If Jesus can weep and show empathy, then we should do the same. Let’s revisit Lena’s question, “Have you cried for your brother today?” Our brothers and sisters are grieving and suffering under unbearable hardships like floods, fires, homelessness, poverty, and senseless violence. Instead of looking for someone to blame or taking the side of your political affiliation, cry for your brother. Then, consider everything he has been through. Measure the hills and valleys on their life. And weep for them just as Jesus wept.

May God keep you and bless you,

Tika