Grieving with Hope

Grief is defined as deep and poignant distress and is a place we find ourselves many times throughout our lives. From person to person, we grieve at different times in different ways over different circumstances. One of the deepest grievances comes from losing someone close to us.

I lost my dad 14 years ago today and while I have lived longer without him than I have with him in my life, I am still overwhelmed from time to time, remembering that he was and will not be here for the “big” life moments. He was not there when I traded in my dance costumes for a volleyball jersey. He will not be standing next to me in college graduation photos or (God willing) on my wedding day, walking me down the aisle. He will not sit with me to talk endlessly about his days as a sports reporter, and how he chose the profession because of his love for sports paired with his lack of coordination.

For many of us, there are moments we have missed out on, and sometimes our minds ponder the thought of, “why didn’t we have more time?” There are moments we doubt God and the plans He has for our lives. We know that God works all things together for those who love Him (Romans 8:28), but we still wonder why we have to grieve. No one wakes up and says “wow, I would love to grieve over something today.” It is not pretty or ideal in any way. It is not necessarily something we desire for our lives. However, it can be a sweet reminder that our grief leads to hope.

As Christians, we have the promise of eternal life. Though it may not feel this way, the time we have on this earth is a millisecond in comparison to the infinite abundance of life we have to look forward to in eternity. Thinking of our loved ones who have made it to the other side of Heaven is such a bittersweet, joyful mourning mindset. Psalm 34:18 says, “the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” We have lost their presence on earth and the ability to speak face to face with them. The potential of making memories has faded away, and we are left with the memories that were made when we didn’t know it would be their final days. But that does not mean we have to sit in sorrowful mourning. We can use these moments to remember and celebrate the life they lived while here on earth and the impact they made.

When I think about the other side of Heaven, I know my dad has the better end of the bargain. He is already enjoying his time with Jesus and cannot wait to see his kids soon. My hope rests in knowing I will be reunited with my earthly father and finally stand in the presence of my Heavenly Father.

So, if you have lost someone you love, some days will be hard. Much harder than others. Some days you will see or hear something that will remind you of that person. It may come out of the blue and hit you like a strong gust of wind, knocking the breath out of your lungs. Even if it hurts, do not wish that moment away. Hold on to what you have to remember and praise God for the sweet reunion that is soon to come. Our hearts and flesh may fail at times, but God is our strength and portion forever (Psalm 73:26). When we believe in His power and anticipate the joy that lies ahead, we can make it through the heartache.

“May the God of hope fill you with all JOY and PEACE as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13