In so many ways Jesus performed the same miracles as Elijah, so much so that at times, the people thought he was God and other times Elijah returned to his people. Restoring life to the man who was dead is in line with all of the Gospel that Jesus preached. He is the Good Shepherd and through him we enter into the Kingdom where he will give us new life. It is echoed through Jesus' miracles of healing and bringing people back to life.
In this particular Gospel reading Jesus tells this poor mother and widow not to weep. He is uniting himself with her in her suffering. He does that with each of us whether we have lost a loved one, are desperate for our children who may have addictions, are misguided, won't listen, etc. He is with us in our suffering when we find out that we have an increased chance of Alzheimer's or been told we have cancer or diabetes. The Lord knows our suffering. His compassion and love are so great. "Do not weep." He told the mother. He is carrying her load with her, just as he carries it with us. We go through the greatest trials in life, and yet make it through. It is not because we are great and can do anything. No, it is because we know that our God is amongst us, visiting us with his love and mercy.
