A Real Man

Bible Reading: John 11:32-36

As Andre turned his bike into the driveway, he skidded on gravel and fell, scraping his elbow. “It’s just a couple of scratches. They don’t hurt,” he said, trying not to wince as his mother disinfected and bandaged his arm. Actually, it hurt quite a bit, but Andre wouldn’t admit it. He didn’t want anybody to think he was a crybaby. “Is Dad still at the fire station?” he asked.

Mom nodded and turned on the TV. “Let’s see if there’s anything on the news about that fire today.”

As they watched, they were surprised to see a news clip of Andre’s father climbing a tall ladder to help a man escape a burning house. “Wow! Dad sure is brave!” exclaimed Andre.

When his father got home, dirty and smelling like smoke, Andre grinned. “Hey, Dad, we saw you on TV!”

But Dad didn’t smile. Instead, he slumped down in a chair, put his face in his hands—and cried! Andre was horrified.

“What’s wrong?” asked Mom. “Are you hurt?”

Dad wiped his eyes. “No, I’m all right. But the man we rescued from that burning house is in very serious condition. He’s not expected to live, and I feel so bad for his family!” Andre didn’t say anything. He quietly went to his room.

A short time later, Dad went to talk to Andre. “Are you all right?” Dad asked. “You seemed upset.”

Andre looked away. “I thought men never . . . at least, I didn’t think firemen would . . . I didn’t think you’d . . .” Andre stopped, uncertain what to say.

Dad smiled. “You mean you thought men never cried, or at least they weren’t supposed to. Right?” Andre nodded. “I know I don’t usually seem very emotional,” Dad said, “but I’m not ashamed to show I have feelings. In fact, I wouldn’t make a very good fireman—or Christian—if I didn’t care about people. Jesus cried when His friend Lazarus died, remember? Do you think He was a wimp?”

“No. He was brave enough to go to the cross and die for us,” Andre replied slowly. “I guess I’ve got a lot to learn about being a man, don’t I?” Sherry L. Kuyt

How About You?

Do you think you need to act tough to prove how brave you are? Do you think you should hide your feelings when something hurts you or makes you sad? Jesus didn’t do that. He wept and shared the sorrow of Mary and Martha when their brother—His friend—died. Jesus was no weakling. When you share in the sorrow others are experiencing, you’re showing them His love.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Share the sorrow of others