We can find a blossom of hope in grief even when it feels elusive, or impossible. While a part of grief is everlasting, eventually our time of endless weeping and deep mourning does come to an end. The resurrection of Jesus reminds us that we can find hope, new life, and redemption even through the most difficult times.
The Bible tells of the women who followed Jesus from Galilee, who ministered to Him and were there at Golgotha, witnessing His crucifixion from a distance. Then, after the Sabbath, they went to view the tomb, taking spices for the body, their hearts heavy with grief. Imagine their surprise when an angel told them “Don’t be afraid because I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here! For He has been resurrected, just as He said” (Matthew 28:5-6, CSB).
Jesus’ disciples also went through an intense period of darkness before they could experience the new life and hope of Easter. They huddled in a darkened room, fearful and uncertain until Jesus came to them. Then came hope, and it is a hope, a certainty that will endure for eternity.
The Promise of Hope The Resurrection of Jesus Gives
It’s that dark period we must experience that we so dislike. I once heard Sammy Lou Johnston from Mississippi. He said, in a speech, “When you see a pretty flower, remember God brought it through a lot of dirt.” Like the soil, which is a growing medium for plants, sorrow and time are the dirt that provides us with the environment to grieve and grow and become open to the sun. The Son.
Certain plants like the poinsettia require a period of darkness in order to bloom. It is often in the blackness of our grief that optimum conditions are met. Our resources are replenished, and we can blossom once more.
My prayer is that you have a blessed Easter season and connect with the hope and promise that the resurrection of Jesus provides.
Warmly,
Georgia
P.S. Today’s content was adapted from A Gift of Mourning Glories: Restoring Your Life After Loss. If you’d like to read more, you can purchase your copy of the book here.
Or if you prefer to work with a coach as you work to overcome difficult habits, you can find out more information at www.GeorgiaShaffer.com/coaching/
Scripture:
“Don’t be alarmed,” he told them. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has been resurrected! He is not here!” (Mark 16:6, CSB).
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