The holidays are hard on people who are mourning the loss of a loved one. Our sensitivity to their feelings is an important part of what it means to be the church. I think of Bible verses like, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” “Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.” Jesus who came to show us who God is stood with Mary and Martha after their brother Lazarus had died. He spoke words of assurance to them. Then as he moved among those who were weeping he did that which was most helpful to them. “Jesus wept.”
You may not shed tears with those who are grieving this Christmas, but you may have an opportunity to listen to their story. When you are with a person who is in deep emotional pain, they don’t need you to give them explanations or soothing words. They need you to listen. Real listening is a powerful act of love, blessing both you and the speaker.
God came to be with us in Jesus. He was called Emmanuel, “God with us.” The most important work you do for God this Christmas may be just to be with someone who is mourning. Your presence may be the channel though which the love of Jesus flows.
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