Grief
I’ve got good news and I’ve got bad news. The good news is that while we still have a long way to go, our society seems to be gradually becoming more aware of anxiety, depression and other mental health problems. Thanks to social media, we seem to see many times where one person opens up about their mental health and many others feel free to open up as well. The bad news is that mental health and anxiety is on the rise.
Growing up I watched as (what seemed to be) a large segment of the Christian population started to argue that if you’re a healthy Christian you should never be anything less than constantly happy. A strange phenomenon, considering most of the Psalms are crying out to God for restoration, peace, safety, etc. The book of Lamentations is said to be written by the prophet Jeremiah in sorrow at the death of King Josiah.
“But Psalms are the Old Testament, Ted” you argue. Want to know a secret? When Jesus was on earth, he consistently quoted the Psalms. In fact, when Jesus is on the cross and says, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” he is actually quoting Psalm 22. Jewish tradition was to quote a part of a passage and then the person hearing it would understand the rest of the reference. If you look at Psalm 22, the author shares their concern…but also remains grounded in their trust in God. This is the message Jesus is trying to send – that he is in agony over his circumstances but still trusting in God.
God understands that in this fallen world, grief is now a part of life. So He provided a way for us to do it in a healthy way. God doesn’t mind us crying out to Him, even in frustration and confusion. Look at Job. But healthy grief remains grounded in God, trusting Him through it all. That may seem difficult at times, but if we can keep in mind that God loves us and is good it can help keep things in perspective. It won’t remove the pain, but it can help ease the pain.
But God also gave us community. When you’re in pain, don’t suffer alone. Seek help. God’s people want to be there with you. Through pain remember that you are loved.
