In the midst of all the celebrations of Advent, many are still reeling from a rough year. 2023 was challenging. Some of us experienced the death of a loved one or the anniversary of a death and that grief casts a shadow over our joy. Others have weathered a divorce or a medical diagnosis that has greatly altered their lives, possibly forever. Job loss, abuse, assault or injury can deeply scar our sense of security and impact our joy during this season. Churches have created “Blue Christmas” services that honor those who are lamenting right now during a season when others rejoice. Ecclesiastes 3 speaks to the ups and downs of life:
3 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to throw away;
7 a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
I find comfort during grieving times in the verses where Jesus does not reprimand us for sorrow but invites us to come to him with our burdens of grief and loss and hurt. He was a man acquainted with sorrows and pain. Jesus said,
28 ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ Matthew 11: 28-30
and
Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. 1Peter 5:7.
Lord, comfort the grieving as they lean on you during Advent.
On the Way to Wonder 