When my father died, I grieved. But my pain was lessened by the knowledge that death was inevitable. He had suffered so many years that his passing was almost a relief. I missed him yes, but I was also grateful he was no longer suffering.
I remember the morning I received the phone call. I listened in a state of shock and disbelief. I was unable to comprehend how life could be proceeding along as though nothing had changed. The next few days passed in a blur, then the reality hit me that I would never see my Daddy here on Earth again, and for a month my every waking moment was spent grieving a life that ended - in my estimation - long before its time.
Since then, I have met and shared in the grief of many, many others. Some are able to work through it - never forgetting - yet resuming life without the loved one as best they can.
Loss encompasses more than actual physical death. We can experience grief over: relationships ending; our children leaving home - by choice, design, or rebellion; watching someone we care for suffer with disease; shattered childhoods; loss of innocence; the list is endless.
The most common questions I hear asked are, "Why?" and "Where was God?" The first I cannot answer. The second, Beloved, God was there. At that precise moment in time - as well as before and after - He was present.
For myself, I will never understand the mystery of the 'whys' as long as I am present in this body. What I can say however is that God knows and understands How? Because "Jesus Wept." (John 11:35) And because God is love. He loves us. When we hurt, He hurts. He longs to bring comfort.
Grief can be worked through. It does not have to keep us immobilized or paralyzed. It will not happen overnight. One day at a time. Believing God can change overwhelming grief into acceptance is the first step.
Rely on the Lord to hold and bear us up. Remember that He will never leave us or forsake us. And when the time comes, share your experiences with those who recently felt the passing of a loved one.
I would like to leave you with this thought: Lord, help us to remember, "blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4)
Thank You Jesus! Because of You I can see my Daddy again one sweet day!
Miss Kandi Danielle Hann
Isaiah 40:31New King James Version (NKJV)
But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint
