11 Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. 12 As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” 14 Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. 16 They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” 17 This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.
Luke 7:11-17
Think about the two crowds here.
One is filled with excitement and momentum. Jesus and his disciples and a large crowd are walking into town. Excited about the miracles and teachings Jesus has performed. Excited about the possibility of a political revolution with their new leader.
The other is overwhelmed with grief. A widow has lost her son and is now alone. No protector, no hope for a future. As she and her friends walk out of the city towards the gravesite, these two crowds meet.
I love the next line, “When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her…”
This reminds me of the two types of people who show up to church every weekend. Some are ready to celebrate, and some are in the stages of grief. The Lord’s heart goes out to them both.
Today as you fast from something and for someone, remember, the Lord’s heart goes out to you and the person you are praying for. He is near the broken-hearted. And he is mighty to save.
Our Prayer: Jesus, be near me as I pray. Please breathe life into my friend for whom I fast and pray.