Matthew 5: 4 - Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (NIV)
Devotional Series: The Beatitudes
I grew up in a Christian home, so I have known, read and heard the words in the Beatitudes most of my life. But I never truly understood the words in today’s verse until my older brother passed away in December 2020. Jesus’ words are pretty simple and self-explanatory in Matthew 5. However, we are often looking for a new, deep and exciting revelation that makes us sound or feel more spiritual.
What I learnt during my period of grief that, I really didn’t expect to learn, was that as I allowed myself to mourn, through tears, shouts, silence or whatever else, not only did the Holy Spirit comfort me as he promised (see below), but my family, friends and community made themselves available to comfort me. Put more simply, the words of Jesus are true. You mourn, you will be comforted.
John 16:7 - Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (KJV)
Perhaps one of the saddest mistakes that we as Christians make during times of grief and loss, whether death or otherwise, is to pretend as though we are not mourning.
Sometimes, this show of togetherness has good intentions. It isn’t driven by a need to please anyone but because we think strength is the best witness/testimony of the goodness of God. Other times, it might be because we believe if we are weak, those around us who are also grieving will not have anyone to lean on. The problem with this approach is that we miss out on the blessing of comfort promised to us by our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Also, unintentionally, this often means we are relying on our own strength, effort and energy to be made whole.
As difficult as it may seem during times of loss, disappointment and grief, the best course of action is to mourn. Why? Because you will be comforted, restored and made whole. It is after we have been comforted that we can provide comfort to others.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. (NLT)
Questions for reflection: Have I allowed myself to mourn and grieve any loss or disappointment I have experienced? Am I willing to accept comfort from the Holy Spirit and those around me? Have I accepted that I need to be comforted so that I can comfort others?
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