This is another blogpost that emphasizes a characteristic of Jesus. Today I want to introduce Him as a Comforter:

someone who eases your feelings of grief or distress. 

Jesus knows exactly what your wounded soul needs. 

The story of Lazarus illustrates the way Jesus gives comforts to His loved ones.  

Lazarus was a friend of Jesus. He was suffering from an illness and his sisters went to Jesus to tell him. Jesus’ immediate response was one of comfort: ‘Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the son of God will receive glory from this (John 11:4).’

The story continues and Lazarus actually died. Moreover, he had been in his grave for four days when Jesus arrived at the scene. One of Lazarus’ sisters told Jesus that Lazarus would not have died, if Jesus would’ve been there. Jesus consoles the sister again by telling her: ‘Your brother will rise again’ (John 11:23). 

Although Jesus was certain that Lazarus would be resurrected, He still sympathizes with the people. 

When Jesus saw her sobbing, and the Jews who had come with her also sobbing, He was deeply moved in spirit [ to the point of anger at the sorrow caused by death] and was troubled, and said, ‘Where have you laid him?’ They said, ‘Lord, come and see.’ Jesus wept (john 11:33-35).  

The story of Lazarus ends with the fact that Jesus raised his voice at Lazarus’ tomb and told him to come out. Lazarus actually came out and was resurrected by Christ (John 11: 43-44). 

Jesus knew this story would have a happy ending, however, He still grieved with the people that were grieving. 

Jesus wants to console you, and grieve with you when you are suffering mentally. Just as He was deeply moved when He saw the people grieving over Lazarus death, He is also deeply moved when you are going through mental distress. 

It can be hard for your physical environment to understand your mental suffering, this can often lead to misunderstandings that are not always beneficial for your recovery process. 

My personal experience is that Jesus completely understands your feelings and always knows how to comfort you.

 Shout for joy, O heavens, and rejoice, o earth, and break forth into singing, o mountains! For the Lord has comforted His people and will have compassion on His afflicted. – Isaiah 49:13