Romans 12:15 (New International Version)
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Death is not natural. People often say that death is a part of living. But if you think about it, it really isn’t. God created us to live forever, in perfect harmony with himself. But sin entered the picture and marred it horribly. Death is the result. When a person dies, when a relationship ends, when a season comes to a close, it is right to mourn. Somehow tears help us to purge ourselves of disappointment, remorse, and sadness.
Not long ago, a friend saw that I was trying to “hold it together” in the face of extreme dread. “Go ahead and cry,” was her advice. And long-distance, she held my hand. I did cry, some in her presence and some on my own. But her permission was invaluable to me. It communicated that she understood, and cared enough to join me in my pain. She allowed herself to be an extension of Christ in my life that day. I experienced the comfort of the Holy Spirit because my friend was willing to take a few moments out of her day and mourn with me.
Your loss may be different from the one that I suffered at the time of my friend’s advice, but I give to you what she gave to me, permission to cry. Go ahead. Cry, until you feel better. Cry as often as you need to. Mourn your loss and if you feel up to it, share it with the Lord. I cannot hold your hand, but I can pray for you.
Father God,
I lift up the person reading these words. I have no idea what trials he faces, what burdens he carries, or what loss she is experiencing. But I am confident that you know and that you care deeply. Draw your child to yourself and bathe him with your peace and comfort. Surround her with your nourishing presence and love her whole again. I pray that the individuals whom you have personally hand-picked to walk with your child will enter into his life at your pre-ordained time. Give her family who will mourn her losses as readily as they celebrate her triumphs. Help him to recognize those you have sent as comforters and to be comforted. Help her to rejoice with those who rejoice and to mourn with those who mourn. In the holy and precious name of Jesus, who is the Christ, I pray. Amen.
Be comforted and be blessed, Family.
