Overwhelming Grief

We live in a broken, fallen world.  Consequently, there is overwhelming grief all around us.  Despite our efforts to remain joyful and positive at any cost, grief has a way of sneaking up on us – on humanity.  From refugees displaced by bloody wars to migrants desperately trying to seek a better life while fleeing violent gangs.  From the death of loved ones to the loss of a pet.  From senseless deadly shootings of school children and political activists to the disintegration of American democracy.  

A wise chaplain I once worked under at the Holland Community Hospital told me: “Everybody in the hospital is grieving something.”  Whether it be the loss of a gall-bladder or the loss of money for expensive medical bills.  Whether it be the loss of part of a lung or the loss of physical ability.  Whether it be the loss of mobility and independence or the opportunity to attend a grandchild’s birthday party.  Everyone is grieving something.  This goes way beyond the scope of the hospitalized.

And into our personal and collective grief, Jesus speaks!  “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew 5:4).  It is the second Beatitude in our ongoing study which we continue this Sunday morning.  But what does it mean?  Who are they that mourn?  How is it that we who grieve our comforted, exactly?  If you have ever lost loved ones, grieve deep hurts, or asked any of these questions, Sunday’s message is just for you!  Jesus has a word for you.  Please don’t miss it!

Worship begins at 10:00 AM.  Newcomers and guests are expected!  I promise the message will inspire you.  The worship will lift your soul.  The fellowship will warm your heart.  And, the presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst will heal you!  Children’s Church is offered for little ones.  Refreshments will be served for all following the service.  Who could you invite to join us?  Or, better yet, who could you bring along with you?  This Sunday’s opportunity will not come again.  Please don’t miss it!