Planning Ahead for Mourning
Everyone dies.
Although this is a true statement, it doesn’t make it easier when we’re faced with the death of a friend or family member. Loss is hard. Walking through the mourning process is harder still.
In Ecclesiastes 3:4, we’re told that there is a time for everything, including “a time to mourn.” We can never really plan for a specific time to mourn, but we can prepare ourselves in some ways.
Preparing to Support Others
When a friend or acquaintance experiences loss, it can be powerful to clear our schedules for them. Work demands and recreation days will always be there, but loss isn’t something that can be scheduled.
If we lead by example, others might rally with us. Genuine care and support has to start somewhere. We might as well prepare for it.
Why? Because all of us know this day will come. At some point, someone we know will pass, and we’ll have to decide: will we stand with them or carry on with our busy lives?
Preparing for Our Own Loss
Why not choose to be ready now? We can choose to use our gifts and abilities to assist in a time of mourning. Why not prepare ourselves mentally so that we know how to respond?
On the other side, if we’re the ones experiencing the loss of a loved one, wouldn’t we want the support of others? When it’s our time to mourn, we’ll gladly accept help. Burial details, memorials, and daily needs can all be cared for by those around us.
As they rise with their gifts and surround us in service, we can allow them to serve and trust in their care. This frees us to focus on grieving.
The Church in Mourning
The Body of Christ is brought into powerful unity during times of grief. Petty discussions about ministry plans, budgets, and events fade as God’s people surround one another.
The role of a ministry leader is to push everything aside and embrace those moments. Leadership and shepherding gifts can help rally others, while opening countless opportunities to share the gospel with friends and family who gather.
We can assume that, at some point in ministry, we’ll face a season of mourning. Why not prepare now? Let’s ask ourselves: How will I respond? How will I bring support?
Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts
- How has the Body of Christ surrounded you during a time of mourning?
- How can you prepare yourself to support others when they experience loss?
- What practical ways can your church community plan ahead for these seasons?
