Minister's Musings
Grief is Hard Work!
My mom died 8 years ago and my dad died 21 years ago. Both of these deaths still bring a tinge of pain when I think of them and their deep loss in my life! Grief is exhausting and the path through this pain is seldom quick and always unpredictable.
Many of us have experienced the death of a significant loved one sometime in our lives. Our paths are obviously different yet we share the common yearning for hope as we journey through the agony of grief. We all long to know and to be told over and over again that death has been conquered once and for all.
Sunday is “All Saints Sunday.” We will be passing out carnations to family members of those who have died and whose funeral was here at church, or at a local funeral home, within this past year.
The ringing of the bell as we read the names of those who have died this past year at Our Saviour’s is a haunting reminder of the finality of death. Yet, we will also be reminded of the resurrection promise that we have in Christ the risen Lord. We firmly hold onto that promise, but we still hurt.
All Saints Sunday is always bitter-sweet. Reflecting on the people who have touched our lives with love and are no longer with us, will bring us back to the pain of death. But we also hear the life-giving Good News of Christ’s resurrection which promises new life.
On Sunday I will be telling the story of my beloved sister-in-law, Shirley, who asked about her “robe” in the days before her death. It is a powerful story of Christ’s promise for all of us. Hope you can be in worship to hear it!
Following worship we will be dedicating the columbarium at 11:15 a.m. We will also have the first columbarium committal service for Larry Mickelson after the dedication. Our beloved Brice Bloxham, who will be ordained at Our Saviour’s on December 2, will be participating in this committal service for his grandfather, Larry. Hope you can be there!
Blessings to all who are grieving and longing to hear the story of resurrection promise one more time!
Pastor Dan
