Everlasting Hope

There is a dire need for Grief Ministry in our churches and in our world. World terrorism, wars, police brutality, divorce, the insecurity of our future, sickness and disease, unemployment, and so many other issues that tend to result in loss, have left individuals and families hurting and grieving. Living life means experiencing loss.

Some lose jobs or relationships. Others experience loss of security or property through bankruptcy, theft or fire. Seniors experience aging challenges. At every stage of our lives, we experience loss, and sometimes grief that stems from that loss. You see death is not the only loss that causes grief. Life losses can result in grief. Grief Ministry addresses loss not only from the death of a loved one or friend, but also from loss that happens as we live.

Grief Ministry is not about crying and feeling sad all the time. It is about Choosing Positive Relief (CPR). It is about developing skills and coping mechanisms for living after loss. The goal of Grief Ministry is to educate, support, and promote healing and hope from life’s challenges. It about prayer, laughter, exercise, stress relief, deep breathing, NEWSTART. It is learning the do’s and don’ts of what to say and do, and how to support someone when loss happens.

As we draw closer to the coming of the Lord, 2 Timothy 3:1 tells us that “in the last days perilous times shall come.” Daniel 12:1 also says “There shall be a time of trouble such as there never was since there was a nation.” In this time of trouble that is upon us, we need Grief Ministry more than we realize. Those who are feeling sadness, emptiness, and sometimes depression, stemming from a loss often have trouble seeing beyond their grief and pain. By offering ways to cope and get through the grief, we open up the mind, and better prepare the heart for the battles we fight daily with the enemy of souls. Ministry and Evangelism should go hand in hand.