Listening like Jesus who weeps - 22 November 2007

There’s a lot of grief in the NHS at present. I don’t mean through the sorrow of bereavement, although that is of course a real place where our listening Jesus brings love and comfort.

I’m talking about the struggles and changes that staff are facing with reorganisation and funding restrictions. Not that Jesus takes sides between management and staff, although I do believe He is passionate about justice. When a team you have worked with for many years is told that your service is no longer required, how do you feel? I know how I felt, and still feel: Angry, upset, unvalued, and unheard. Perhaps it’s the last thing that hurts most. Despite all the evidence to show the good work that has been done, no one has listened. It’s like a juggernaut that can’t be stopped, and we feel powerless.

How does my walk as a Christian relate to this situation? I have ranted and complained, cried and campaigned, and am beginning to ask God for His peace in this situation. He has heard my cries, and I believe He accepts my energetic resolve to try to stop the “juggernaut,” but I am also beginning to see things a little more in His perspective.

Words like “hope” and “future” are beginning to emerge, slowly.

And I am comforted by the knowledge that Jesus “shook with compassion” when He saw Mary weeping after her brother Lazarus had died. (John 11:33) He didn’t try to smother her grief with words, rather He allowed himself to be deeply touched by her emotion.
Thankyou Lord that our griefs touch your heart. May we listen and love like you.