Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (Matthew‬ ‭5:4‬ ‭ESV‬‬)

If you have ever mourned over the passing of a loved one, you understand that deep pain that you feel in the pit of your soul. I don’t ever think anyone is ready when someone dies even when it is expected. Memories of them flood our minds and the house suddenly feels empty and uncomfortably quiet the moment we realize they are gone. Running errands doesn’t feel the same and flashbacks of that person who was always with you become painful knots in your chest and throat, moving you to cry a helpless wail. In the midst of their absence, God reminds us that the pain we feel is a result of the love we have for them because separation never feels good. Can you imagine how he felt when we were separated from him? The permanent loss of a soul that he loves breaks his heart, which is why he doesn’t want anyone to perish.

It helps to know that believers have arrived at that “better place” as promised by the gospel. There is a peace that rests on our hearts knowing that those have have entered heaven before us are rejoicing because they get to see God face-to-face. They are healed, restored, and full of youthful energy because their the Lord has given them new bodies.

The comfort that comes with mourning shows up with the friends and family who sit and cry with you. These relationships are blessings from the Lord whenever we are grieving and going through tough times because he works through them as they provide us support and prayer. That is why many pastors encourage their congregants to join a small group or life group. It’s through the fellowship of other Christians where we are reminded of God’s promises and reassurances, especially when we don’t feel like reading our Bible.

Time does not heal our pain when we mourn. We may mourn over the loss of a life, declining health, unemployment, or even failures, and the pain we feel can only be healed by the Lord; he is the only One who can truly do it by walking us through the process of grief. I realize this is such a somber topic, but I hope it is reminder for all of us to really cherish what we have. Are we as thankful, loving, and encouraging as we want to be? The reality is that not everyone can say “yes” because they may be enduring very difficult and perhaps demoralizing situations. If that is you, then my heart goes out to you. I pray that God places his hand and protective covering over you so that you may begin your journey of healing. The love of Jesus never runs empty and he will be sure to comfort you in the days to come. Keep your faith in him and seek the help of others. It is through relationships that the Lord helps all of us heal.