Rev Gav
When I feel bereaved
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
The writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us
that there are going to be times in our lives
when we experience all these things:
birth, death, planting, harvesting,
destroying, healing, breaking, building,
weeping, laughing, mourning, and dancing.
There is a time for everything but,
importantly, there is not necessarily
a ‘right’ time for everything.
It may not have been your loved one’s ‘right’ time,
but know that God is right here with you now.
God is not remote nor inaccessible,
but is standing with you in your suffering.
The Father loves you and is crying with you.
longing to wrap his arms around you,
longing to comforting you.
There will come a day when there will be
no more hunger, pain, or suffering.
We are not there yet,
but I do know that God is cheering you on,
offering you encouragement and support.
The Father has not left you forsaken or alone.
Today you are weeping and mourning.
You have journeyed with brokenness, destruction, and death,
and it hurts.
It really hurts.
It is okay to cry.
It is okay to be sad when you remember
the loved one you have lost.
We give thanks and celebrate your loved one’s life,
for who they were and who they still are in God,
thanks to the saving power through Jesus Christ.
Do not feel guilty when you laugh or smile,
embrace a friend, sing,
or allow poetry to speak to your soul.
Though it may be a time to mourn,
may you know the presence of God with you
— The Father’s comfort, joy, and peace.
May He bring you all the support and encouragement you need.
My dear child, though you are in the darkness,
you will emerge into the light.
You will continue to plant, build, harvest, heal, laugh, and dance.
For there is a time for everything.
Amen.
