Good ears and big shoulders: How to help in times of grief
As a pastor, my ministry involves death and grief, helping both those who are dying and their loved ones. During these times, people need to hear the comfort of God’s holy Word. It is important to share that that the Lord has prepared a place for each of us, and we need to hear the peace that only Jesus can give.
Jesus says, “Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”
When someone’s time here on earth seems to be coming to its close, there is no reason to be worried or afraid. We trust and know that God never gives us more than we can handle or deal with. In Jesus, there is no more sorrow or sadness or strife. He is leading a loved one now to his or her special place in heaven.
Pastors are not the only ones who can offer comfort in times of death. But sometimes others are unsure how to be helpful — what to say or do.
Family and friends need to have good ears. People want to share their thoughts and feelings when the end of life is approaching. You will want to listen closely and respond appropriately.
You also need to have big shoulders. There are times when it is good to simply tell the individual or the family that God is watching over them. God knows their needs, and God knows their worries. It is good to help them see that the Lord is about to call their loved one home to heaven. The individual or the family will need to lean on you, and tears of sadness and joy will be shed.
We pray: “Dear Lord Jesus, we long to be with you in glory. We knows our days on earth are numbered. Take away our pain and sorrow. Comfort us with the joy of life eternal. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”