Worship in the Midst of Grief

 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

For many this Christmas, celebrating will be difficult. Even as I write this, I think about all we have experienced and lost this past year as a church family. For my own family, this Christmas season will be bittersweet. We are thankful for the time we had with her, but at times we still feel the raw grief of our loss.

When those moments of grief grab you unexpectedly, just remember this: we have a hope that the world cannot understand. Sure, we lost very special people from this life, but we have the hope of a glad reunion day with them. Paul spoke of this in his letter to the church of Thessalonica reminding them that our grief is temporary.  He refers to the gentleness of sleep where sorrow, pain, or the cares of this world cannot invade. They are at peace in His presence and will reunite with us at the return of Christ.

So, this Christmas season, spend time worshipping the one who made this hope real. While remembering those that sleep in Christ, celebrate the wonder of this season through a heart of worship.

C