“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4



Walking the dog late in the evening or early in the morning is an activity I treasure. Time to myself is a precious commodity and a walk with Amos is a chance to grab a handful and use it to admire the beauty of the heavens and the world around me. Z kindly shared his audio cd set of the Bible Experience, and I’ve listened to the Gospels through Philemon lately—it’s balm for my soul. Hearing the Word of God in this format has been a rich experience, and I look forward to the mornings that are my turn to take him out. Other times I have a musical playlist on my ipod that inspires me as it underscores the natural revelation around me.

I’ve needed these walks especially of late. There have been three deaths in as many weeks in our church body, one ending a difficult battle with cancer and two occurring unexpectedly, and in our own family Don’s cousin suffered a fatal heart attack this weekend. Just a few weeks ago, one of our sons lost a treasured friend in an accident, my friend lost her father to a stroke, and another lost her lifelong friend to cancer. People all around us are hurting, mourning the loss of ones they held dear.

Looking up at the stars in the early hours just before dawn I am reminded of the perfection of God’s creation. The stars are fixed in their places, the moon continues to rise and set in its orbit, the birds hail the coming dawn, and there is order. Although things feel as if they’re strangely occurring, I know that they’re part of God’s plan, and that just as he keeps the stars, He holds our future and will see us through this life and into the next. I don’t claim to understand all the mysteries of His plan, but I can testify to the faith that He infuses us with when we’re called to walk through difficult times.

I know the fiery pain of grief and loss, and ache for those who mourn, but I also know the comfort of Christ that is sweet beyond description in the midst of such searing pain. God uses it in a profound way to shape our spirit and prepare us for eternity with Him. Change is so difficult for us, but is a tool of sanctification in our lives.

This morning, as Amos and I ventured out into the crisp, cold air, I watched the sun rise, listened to the caroling of the birds, and remembered the faithfulness of God in the midst of our trials. My heart was still heavy for those who mourn, but my spirit was lifted, knowing that He who created all things will comfort them with his mercy and will see them safely through it.