Ministry of remembering

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. — Romans 12:15

The holidays can be a difficult time for people who are grieving. Friends may be reluctant to mention the name of someone who has died, fearing that it will cause unnecessary pain. But during the next few weeks, friends or family members may need you to talk openly with them about the person they have lost. Call it the “ministry of remembering.”

A chaplain at a Connecticut hospital says, “When you’ve experienced the loss through death of a spouse, child, or parent, it hurts terribly. And when people don’t want to use their names or refer to the death, it’s like losing that person all over again.”

Bereaved people ache for opportunities to talk about their loved one, whether the person died last week or many years ago. Even though remembering may bring tears, it can also produce emotional release and even joy.

Tucked into a series of commands in Romans 12, we find these words: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (v.15). Sharing a time of remembering with a hurting friend may help to ease a heavy burden.

If someone comes to mind, don’t put it off. Pray, make the phone call, stop by for a visit, or invite the friend to lunch. It may be the most important thing you do today.— David McCasland

Lord, when I learn that someone is hurting, Help me know what to do and to say; Speak to my heart and give me compassion, Let Your great love flow through me today.  —K. De Haan

READ: Romans 12:9-21

To ease another’s burden, help to carry it.

The Bible in one year: • 2 Corinthians 1-3