Dear Families,
Have any of you ever felt a profound sense of loss at the passing of a loved one? Everyone processes the loss of a loved one differently and each loss is so different. Many well meaning people may say that they "understand" or that they "know just how it feels." While these words are intended to provide a measure of comfort and express kindness, the truth is that no one understands loss or knows just how it feels quite like the One Who made us. He is the God of all comfort.
Can you imagine what the disciples felt after the death of Jesus? All the actions the disciples had been involved in, all of the ministry that they had experienced, all the teaching that they had heard, all of the memories that they had enjoyed were suddenly viewed through a different lens. Their Hero, Master, Teacher, and Friend was suddenly and violently crucified. Yet, it was not tragic; it was triumphant. It was not defeat; it was victory—all because of the resurrection of Christ! During those dark hours, the disciples had the words of Jesus to turn to for comfort and solace, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?" (John 11:25-26).
From time to time as a ministry our staff have the privilege to pray with families who are grieving the loss of a loved one or share encouragement and truth with families who are struggling. The burdens that we personally experience seem to fade when you begin to listen to what others are experiencing. However, with all of these things, it helps to ponder and meditate on the sacrifice Christ made on the Cross, taking the sin of the whole world upon himself.
As you celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, may the physical suffering and spiritual separation from God the Father, stir in your heart a deep gratitude for all He has done and all He continues to do for us. May the God of all Comfort be especially near to you. As He draws nearer to you, may you draw nearer to Him as you celebrate the resurrection of our Lord.
In Christ,
David Waller
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