By Allison Vines, Director of Care

“Blessed are the wounded ones in mourning, brave enough to show the Lord their scars. Blessed are the hurts that are not hidden, open to the healing touch of God.” The Kingdom is Yours, Common Hymnal

I have listened to these words many times, over and over again. I was listening to them long before the pandemic. Often when we hear the term mourn or that someone is in mourning we associate it with death. That is not untrue, but mourning refers to loss in general. Loss is defined as the state or feeling of grief when deprived of someone or something you value. A sense of terrible loss. Are you allowing yourself to really consider what you are grieving? You may find that when you begin to name your grief, you also give a name to that anxiety you’ve been feeling that you couldn’t make sense of. Grief is an invitation from Jesus. When we mourn, we will be comforted.

In order for our brains to begin receiving comfort, we have to acknowledge the loss to ourselves. In order for our hearts to begin receiving comfort, we have to acknowledge the loss with Jesus. The depth of our grief is determined by the loss. Give yourself permission to grieve without comparison. It is good and right and honoring to grieve dreams, plans, ceremonies, and yes, death. Grief is not fun. Grief is not easy. Grief is not linear. Grief will be met with comfort. That is the promise we are given. What are you grieving?

If you are grieving or would like to talk to someone about grief, we are here for you! The Providence Care Team is available. Please email Allison Vines, Director of Care. We have Care groups available, counseling resources, and pastoral care available.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Matthew 5.4