Over the years, I
have sat by family and friends who were grieving the death of a loved one.
Every step of the way, we do anything in our power to ease or alleviate death's
impact. And we fail miserably simply because, humanly speaking, we can't
overcome death.
We try to get the
grief-stricken person to eat, sleep, exercise and any number of other things in
order to redirect their minds away from the deceased love one. But nothing
works. We assure them that God is near and in control, that they are not alone,
yet it doesn't seem to register on their radar.
They continue to
grieve . . . sometimes to the extreme. Finally, frustrated and defeated, we
recognize there is nothing more we can do to help. And despite our frustration
that is not a bad thing. In an effort to minister to others, we have to realize
that we are totally inadequate. Every step of the way, we must rely on the Holy
Spirit.
As humans, we can
overcome most things . . . except death. Grief is not a bad thing to be avoided
at all costs. Rather, it is a natural outcome of a deep and abiding love. The
stronger the relationship, the deeper the grief. Yet, while we are grieving here,
those who are asleep in Christ are rejoicing in paradise.
Understandably we
don't want to let go of our loved ones. And it takes time to heal. In fact
grief is a part of the healing process. It is imperfect and painful. It isn't
pretty and usually happens in stages, but when complete life will be beautiful
again. And every step of the way God already has provided the victory for those
we have let go.
Dear Father, thank
you for the victory over death, hell and the grave. Empower us with faith and
fortitude to trust in you every step of the way. This I pray in the name of
Jesus. AMEN
Be strong and
courageous today every step of the way,
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