Mary and Martha inform Christ about Lazarus, who was a friend of theirs. His initial reaction is to weep. This is beautiful. Upon seeing the savior weep, the Jews remark; “35 Jesus wept. 36 Then said the Jews, behold how he loved him!” There is just one verse that tells about Christ’s reaction. The footnote however leads us to D&C 42:45 and gives us a little more background. “Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die, and more especially for those that have not hope of a glorious resurrection.” Everything Jesus did in life was done with a purpose. Secondly, he showed and challenged culturally constructed gender roles. The Savior of the world, and not on this occasion alone, openly weeps. His simple act validates and legitimizes men who feel and express emotion. Just think, he is perfect and a child of God, and even he showed vulnerable, human emotions. Today, gender often dictates that women act as nurturers, are kind and tender, are weak and emotional. Men are compelled to be strong, tough, unemotional, assertive and forceful. The world and even other men are suspicious of men who publicly cry or who show emotion. These are, of course, are generalities. He showed that constructive expression of emotions is acceptable. He is compassionate, caring, nurturing, considerate and yet he is also strong and capable. We are commanded to be even as he is; and he would have all his disciples, male and female, be kind, compassionate, caring and strong. He would have us “bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light.
Family Fortress 