Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Matthew 5:4 NIV
Mourners
September 19, 2022 was proclaimed as a National Day of Mourning in Canada, to mark the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. It coincided with Her Late Majesty’s State Funeral in London, United Kingdom, and the end of the official period of mourning in Canada. The National Day of Mourning was an opportunity for Canadians from coast to coast to coast to commemorate Queen Elizabeth. It was designated a holiday for the public service of Canada, and other employers across the country also recognized the National Day of Mourning.
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Nations have always called for official days of mourning when a national leader passes. Most of the time, however, grief is much more personal. It usually comes with the passing of a loved one, or something else that happens that changes our lives forever. The textbook definition of grief is that it occurs when “life changes, we have no control over the change, and life will never be the same again.” At times like that, we are blessed to have family and friends gather around to comfort us in our grief. It’s why we gather together when a loved one passes, to comfort each other and support one another. For the follower of Jesus, there is a wonderful promise that Jesus gives in what has come to be known as the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:4 He gives this promise: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Jesus totally understands our grief. He stood outside the tomb of His friend Lazarus and wept. So, when He promises His presence when we mourn, when we grieve, it is real and palpable. He will comfort you in your times of grief.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley