Lesson 3: Mourning

A Pathway Forward

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” - Jesus

In a world that often prioritizes productivity and efficiency, mourning can feel like an interruption to life. Yet, mourning is not a hindrance but an essential part of the Christian journey. It is a time to acknowledge our losses, process our emotions, and find solace in community.

Grieving is a personal, internal process, while mourning is the outward expression of that grief. This outward expression is vital, as it allows us to share our pain and receive support from others.

While Christians often believe in the power of hope, it's important to recognize that grief is a natural and necessary part of the healing process. Instead of rushing to move past our pain, we should allow ourselves the necessary time to process our losses. By sitting with our sorrow, we can experience the full weight of our emotions and embark on a journey of growth and healing that Jesus has instore for us.

Moreover, as a community of faith, we are uniquely positioned to offer a supportive and nurturing environment for those experiencing grief. By being a safe place, the church can help individuals feel connected to a larger community and find solace in the presence of others who understand their pain.

In the depths of our sorrow, it can sometimes feel like God is distant or silent. However, countless biblical passages testify to God's unwavering presence in the face of suffering. The Psalms, in particular, offer a rich tapestry of emotions, from lament and despair to trust and hope. For example, Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is 'close to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.'

Isaiah 53 tells is that when Jesus went to the cross he was carrying our sorrows. He experienced pain and loss so that we would never be alone in ours. Jesus willingness to enter into human suffering modeled the love and empathy that we as followers of Jesus should approach others in their pain.

Ultimately, we have a hope worth holding onto: a future where mourning will be no more. Revelation 21:4 reminds us that God "will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." This promise doesn't negate the pain of present suffering, but it does offer comfort and hope for a future where grief and loss will be no more.

Jesus has extended us an invitation to drawn near to himself and to each other in our times of grief. Knowing, that one day there will be no more. For now we get to actively practice the "ministry of comfort," offering support and empathy to those who are hurting. Mourning is not a solitary endeavor but a shared journey that has the power to draw individuals closer to both God and each other and a place to experience hope and healing.

Questions for Discussion

  1. What is the difference between mourning and grieving, and why is it important to understand the distinction?

  2. What are some of the ways that Jesus challenges your cultural norms when it comes to mourning and grief?

  3. How can we avoid offering unhelpful platitudes or trying to "fix" someone else's grief?

  4. What are some practical ways we can create space for mourning in our lives and in our communities?

  5. How have you experienced the presence or absence of God in your own times of mourning?

  6. What does the image of Jesus collecting our tears in a bottle (Psalm 58:8) reveal about God’s heart for those who mourn?

  7. How has God used your past experiences of pain and loss to shape you and draw you closer to Him?