A couple of quick editorial notes – I have been using the Bible App for several years as the daily scripture for these posts. I find that discovering what passage they have chosen each day is an adventure and challenges me a little because I didn’t select the verses myself. It also keeps me from wandering off on my own agenda. A friend asked recently about the translation I usually use. I have been posting from the New Living Translation (NLT) for the last couple of years because I like the way it reads. I will occasionally use another version but it may be helpful to know where it is from so I’ll start including it, even if it’s the NLT every day for a while.
Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:4 (NLT).
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
When we think of mourning, it is usually over someone we have lost or a way of life that no longer exists. Regardless of what causes our pain, Jesus tells us that God will bless and comfort us. He is always aware of our condition and present even when things are difficult.
Often our grief is very specific, as in the death of a loved one. However, we may also suffer from underlying issues that cause us pain. Divorce, loss of a job, being forced to move, social unrest, any number of things can grieve us. Sometimes we can’t really define it.
Jesus tells us that God knows everything about us, including our grief. We know that God grieves for us and with us. God wants to comfort us and allow us to move on with our lives and our kingdom work, not forgetting the cause, but instead using it to strengthen us in faith.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Jesus to comfort and teach us. Help us to see that love is the answer to our grief and offer that love to all Your children. Amen.