Grieve For a Season

April 9, 2023

Reflections From the Heart of Allan Redenius
Several weeks ago, my beloved sister, Alvina, died.  Her seven year struggle with cancer came to its conclusion.  Cancer may have won the battle for her life, but this I know, in its victory, it did not gain the high ground over her life.  You see, since a little girl, she knew Jesus as her Lord and Savior.  That alone brings me joy.
 
So, how do I feel?  Losing family is hard and I am sad.  I’ve been down this road too many times, both with family and friends.  Over the years, I’ve become accustomed to the vacant feeling surrounding death.  At the passing of a loved one, I think, the whole world should stop and take notice.  It does not.  People still laugh, go to work, do the things of life while I’m stuck in a pit of sadness.  I know I can’t stay in that pit very long.  In a very short while, I merge back onto the lane of life, and I too laugh, go to work, and do the things of life.  After all, isn’t life all about living?
 
All of my emptiness, all of my tears will not bring back my loved one.  Speaking of tears, maybe part of my grief is that I don’t cry anymore.  But then, what would that accomplish?
 
I grieve more for Alvina’s husband and two sons.  She was part of their every day life, and now, suddenly, she is gone.  My heart hurts more for them, than for me.
 
I think King David set an excellent example for us on how to grieve in 2nd Samuel 12:13-23.  His child lay sick and dying.  While the child lived, David fasted and pleaded with God for the child’s healing, but still, the child died.  After the child died, we are told that David worshipped the Lord.  When the King’s court asked of David about his demeanor, he replied, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept.  I thought, ‘Who knows?  The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting?  Can I bring him back again?  I will go to him, but he will not return to me.”
 
David believed in life after death.  I do too.  So while I live, I will live.  I know that one day I will see Alvina and all my loved ones in heaven.
 
Giving thanks for life!

Pastor Allan
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P.S. If you are grieving, grieve for a season.  But through it all, worship Jesus, just like King David.
 
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