In all of our best attempts to comfort those in grief, we often make it worse.

A grieving person needs a bit more than “They are in a better place.”

This is only one of the remarks we make out of a good place but a poor understanding of pain. I think we’ve all done it.

But during a grief season, I didn’t want to hear all the familiar scriptures everyone quoted to me. I already knew them. I just needed to know I was loved and that people were there for me.

I was reminded today of the story of Lazarus dying and Jesus watching his sisters mourn their loss. He didn’t try to convince them he was in a better place or try to make them joyful at his “home going.” Instead, Jesus wept.

Why?

Jesus came to raise Lazarus from the dead. Yet, He wept.

Isn’t it the most beautiful picture and example of “mourn with those who mourn?”

His compassion far surpassed any cliche and He merely felt the pain of those He loved.

I’ve learned how shallow my words must have been a thousand times as I tried to comfort someone in loss.

I am learning to just sit and listen. Hug and hold…and stay close.

Perhaps we could be a bit more like Jesus and let the pain of other’s hearts flood our own hearts too.

Next time someone is in any kind of grief, don’t belittle their pain. Let them feel it fully. It’s part of their healing process with Jesus.

Just weep with them like He did.