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When the kids were very young we met an older lady at church who became very dear to our family. She became a wonderful friend. She became a grandmother to our children. She watched them every week while Marybeth and I would go on a date. Then they started spending the night at her house every Friday. For years this went on. Her life and our family were knit together in friendship. Well, Monday morning we were notified that this dearest friend, who was like a grandmother to our four kids, passed away. For some folks, Christmas can be a time of intense pain because of the loss in their lives.
It’s OK to accept grief as a part of life
- Ecclesiastes 3:4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
- When you’re making your calculations about how life is supposed to go, it’s good to factor in grief. When you’re setting your expectations, don’t forget to add in grief. Otherwise, you’ll be surprised by how it quickly turns your life into a bitter mess.
- Hope deferred makes the heart sick.
- God in the flesh did not escape the grief associated with the evil of this world. A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Jesus wept
- There will be some empty chairs around the table this year. Can you let that be a reminder to look up for your redemption draws nigh? In Jesus Christ, there is no such thing as permanent loss. Tears are only temporary. The future of all grief in Christ is Revelation 21:4-5 God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes…
It’s OK to remember the good times
- You’re encouraged to think on things that are lovely and peaceable and good.
- The past is only memories in the mind now.
- They might as well be good memories. And it’s probably helpful to talk about the good memories.
- Other people will enjoy this time and that’s not wrong
- …envy [is] the rottenness of the bones.
- Consider the real reason for the holiday instead of comparing your loss to the joy other people are experiencing at this time. Before your loss, you also enjoyed this time. It’s OK for people to enjoy the season.
Draw close to the LORD
- Be careful not to multiply sorrow
- Grief is seasonal. Be careful you don’t drag out the season.
- Don’t multiply your sorrows by drowning them. Proverbs 23:29-30 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? … They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
- Be aware of isolation and depression
- Get out. If you can’t go see others, find someone to be a blessing to. Weep with those that weep. Luke 6:31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.
- Diligently pray for others who may be suffering the way you are. Send them a message or call them.
- Blessed are ye that weep now, for ye shall laugh.
