Jesus wept.” – John 11:35 (NIV)

The other day I was listening to a podcast, and the host brought up a story I know so well—the story of Lazarus. But what they pointed out stopped me in my tracks.

They said, “This story of Lazarus is such a beautiful example of Jesus’ emotional intelligence.”

Now listen, I’ve read this passage more times than I can count. I know the timeline. I know Mary and Martha were grieving. I know Jesus took His time getting there. I know He raised Lazarus from the dead.

But emotional intelligence? I had never considered that.

Jesus showed up knowing He was about to perform a miracle. He knew the ending. He knew resurrection was coming. And yet… when He saw the people He loved mourning, He didn’t skip past their pain. He entered it.

He wept.

🚫 He didn’t say, “Y’all just wait—I’m about to do something big.”

🚫 He didn’t quote a scripture or give a faith-filled speech.

✅ He cried. Because they were crying.

✅ He hurt. Because they were hurting.

That is emotional intelligence—being fully aware of your own power and still choosing to meet people where they are.

And whew—what a word for those of us in real estate.

Because let’s be real: our clients go through a lot.

They’re scared, excited, frustrated, grieving, overwhelmed… and if we’re not careful, we can rush right past it.

Why?

Because we know the market.
We know the process.
We know how the story will likely end.

But just like Jesus, even if we know the outcome, we still need to sit in the moment with them.

Here are a few ways we can do that well:

• Acknowledge the emotion before offering advice. Before you talk strategy, just say, “That makes total sense,” or “This part can be hard.” Let them know they’re not crazy for feeling what they feel.
• Be present more than perfect. You don’t have to say the perfect thing. Sometimes a listening ear, a soft tone, or a thoughtful text means more than market knowledge ever could.
• Pray for emotional awareness. Ask God to help you show up with sensitivity and wisdom. When you pray before appointments, ask Him to give you a heart like Jesus.

This story reminded me that as real estate professionals, we don’t just guide transactions—we walk with people through real, emotional transitions. And when we choose to slow down, feel with them, and stay present, we reflect Jesus in the most beautiful way.

He didn’t rush the resurrection.

He paused and wept first.

Let’s do the same.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for being the perfect example of what it looks like to lead with compassion. Teach me to pause, to listen, and to care deeply for the people You’ve called me to serve. I don’t just want to get the job done—I want to do it with a heart that reflects Yours. Amen

Your Real Estate Bestie,