May 13 | Matthew 5:4

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)

Funerals are awkward for me. I never know how to comfort the mourners even as a pastor. When they ask me questions like, “Why did God take him now?” I don’t know how to respond. I know they don’t actually want me to answer the question. It’s asked out of grief, not for academic discussion.

So I hug them, hold their hand, sit with them in silence. I try to convey comfort even when I don’t know how to comfort them. It makes no sense for Jesus to say we are blessed when we mourn. Weeping and crying is not a happy state.

And yet those who mourn will be comforted. You do your best to comfort others. Usually your efforts are appreciated. People understand what you’re trying to do. God is close to the brokenhearted. He comforts you like no one else can.

Paul later calls him the God of all comfort in 2 Corinthians. Only he can truly comfort a person. Holy Spirit is the Comforter. He comes alongside you and guides you through the trials and suffering you must face.

When no one can comfort you, God knows you perfectly and he comforts you. His mercies are new every morning, and he loves you. When the death of a loved one, the wounds of a friend, or the attacks of the enemy come near you, the Lord is with you.

Action Step: Seek the Lord in the middle of your weeping and mourning. He understands as your Comforter. He will heal your broken heart and bring joy in the morning.

Lord Jesus, thank you for comforting me in my despair. You lift me up and bring your joy. Help me to get through the pain of my loss and walk with me through this dark time in my life. I will praise you through this storm.