Grief and resurrection hope

John 11:17–44; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18

Use your preferred translation.

How does Christian hope make room for mourning rather than silence it?

• What does the passage say? Restate it in your own words before interpreting it.
• Who is speaking, and to whom?
• What is the surrounding context — what comes just before and after?
• Which words or phrases repeat or stand out?

1. Jesus knows He will raise Lazarus, yet He weeps. What does that tell us about grief?
2. Martha and Mary each say “Lord, if you had been here.” How does Jesus respond differently to each?
3. Paul says believers do not grieve “as others do who have no hope.” Does that mean less grief, or grief of a different kind?

Who around you is grieving, and how could you be present without rushing them toward comfort?

Contact someone this week who has lost someone, simply to say you remember.

Bring your losses to Jesus, who weeps with those who weep, and ask Him to strengthen your hope.