Genesis 23 “The Death Of Sarah”
No one really likes to talk about death. It is a heavy subject and carries many emotions with it. However, it is the reality of life - not one of us will leave this Earth without passing through the black waters of death (unless Jesus comes back before then!) In the Christian "world," sometimes we can feel pressured of "when" and "when not" to show certain emotions. This can be especially true when someone close to us passes away. "You shouldn't be crying," some may say. "They were a Christian and you know they are in Heaven right now. If you're sad then your faith must not be very strong," others may chime in. Each one of us processes grief and tragedy differently. The Bible makes it clear there is a time to weep & to mourn. It's okay to feel sad sometimes. Even JESUS wept (not just cried but WEPT) when His friend Lazarus died - and He was the Son of God. So take comfort today knowing that your Savior's arms are always open to embrace you and His shoulder is always there to cry on.
Reflection Questions:
1. How do you process grief? Would you say that is normal or abnormal?
While there is a time for mourning, there is also a time to heal and cling to a hopeful joy. If you are having trouble still getting over the loss of a close/loved one, read John 11 today after the sermon. Meditate on verses 23-27 and 32-44.
2. What does it mean to "prepare" for our own deaths? What can you do TODAY to begin preparing wisely for your death?
3. Do you know where you personally are going after you die? How do you know this? If you don't know, reach out to us today and we'd love to answer any questions you may have!