Grief and Blessings

 

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:1-10 ESV).

 

Mourning is a blessing? Meekness is a blessing? Wouldn’t life be happier if we could avoid mourning and meekness? Well, no. Two of the strongest toxins in our hearts are the urge to pass judgment on others and the drive to control others.

 

Jesus invites us to put those toxins to death through mourning and being meek. Do you see brokenness, struggle, and messiness in people’s lives? Does that activate your judgment trigger? Try mourning instead, says Jesus; sit by someone who is hurting, and weep with them. Judgment isolates and excludes. Mourning together can build a deep, spiritual bond. “Mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15). If you can recall a time when someone wept with you, you know it was a beautiful gift.

 

Do you see someone acting in ways that don’t fit your agenda, and do you feel a desire to control them? Let it go, says Jesus; walk with them in a way that is meek: gentle, patient, and kind.

 

I am often placed in a position where people are consumed with anger for God and his plan. On those occasions when these individuals concede their perceived rights and privileges to the God of all creation, I always find the peace and tranquility that Jesus calls “blessings.” I remember one person in particular who was in great pain from a mistake he had made in his marriage. As he told me his story, I found myself weeping along with him. He reached the end of the story and simply whispered, “I have nowhere to turn.” I said, “Can you turn to my God? He will heal your hurts and give you peace.” He simply nodded his head. He began his journey forward that afternoon. You can too!