Matthew 5:4

“God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

The word that is used for mourn here is also used in the Greek version of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, to describe Jacob’s grief when he was led to believe that Joseph, his treasured son, was dead (Genesis 37:34). He was grief stricken. God’s promise is that those who are overwhelmed with sorrow now will find his comfort and strength. So who are the people that are mourning so profoundly today?

Jesus probably had in mind, among others, those who knew the agony of losing a loved one. Most of us know the pain of friends and family members dying, and some of us have had the awful experience of people dying suddenly or even violently. None of us would want to make light of these terrible experiences, but Jesus reminds us that death doesn’t have the last word. Even in the midst of our loss, God is there with us offering his peace, strength and love. When someone has died, most people feel numb at first and it can be hard to hear any good news at all. But as time passes it becomes possible to see the bigger picture and to meet the God who offers his healing, companionship and strength.

Jesus was almost certainly speaking about others who are overwhelmed by the brokenness and suffering in the world. And then there are those who feel crushed by their failures and sinfulness. Jesus comes to all those who are overwhelmed with sadness and grief and announces his good news. Miraculously, he is able to bring comfort to anyone who is willing to bring their heavy burden to him and leave it in his hands.

Question

When have you had the experience of mourning, and how did God comfort you?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you that you meet us when we go through times of distress and that you give us the strength to carry on. Please come today to those in our world who feel their burdens are too heavy to bear, and give them your comfort. Amen