The Gift Of Tears

Jesus wept.

John 11:35

Tears are a part of life. Crying is an emotional response to something we feel. Sometimes we cry in response to something of beauty. We cry at the movies or reading a story. We cry at life events such as the birth of a baby, a graduation, or a memorial service. We cry in anger or confusion.

Tears provide an outlet for our deepest emotions. When we cry, we are vulnerable and authentic. Crying is a letting down of the guard, ultimately a release that cannot be explained in words. Sometimes we fight that vulnerability. Sometimes we believe we shouldn’t feel a particular way or we can’t identify the cause for the tears. But we can be comforted in knowing that God hears our cries and sees every tear we shed.

Our ability to express our emotions with tears is a gift, and we are in good company because Jesus expressed his emotions through tears. We should not be ashamed of the gift God created in us. When we cry, it should bring us to our heavenly Father so he can remind us that he is with us and loves us. He knows our pain. Scriptures says that he is “close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

Then God takes it a step further. John 16:20 says, “But your grief will turn to joy.” Such transformation can only be orchestrated by God. It’s an amazing gift that emotions of both sorrow and joy can bring relief from our greatest pain.

The tears are the blood of the Soul.

Augustine of Hippo

We need never be ashamed of our tears.

Charles Dickens

Tears are God’s gift to us. Our holy water. They heal us as they flow.

Rita Schiano

For Further Reflection

Romans 12:15; Psalm 30:5; Psalm 56:8; Revelation 7:17

Today’s Prayer

Lord, I thank you for the gift of tears. Please help me to remember that you accept them as an offering in release of my circumstances. Amen.