Shannon R. Hess

I use to make this mental list titled
“things you should never have to do” or something like that. Throughout life when something unimaginable would arise, I would mentally shove it on that list. Like the time I had to help a grieving mother pack away her baby girl’s clothing and things, or when I had to write my sister’s obituary. I sat for what seemed like hours, pencil and paper in front of me. How does one sum up such a vibrant, full life in such a short space. How? I said the words out loud that time, only to hear God talk back in my spirit. “Who told you that? Who told you you should “never” have to do this?” I sat there stunned and also convicted.

Because He had a point. Like in the garden when He was searching for Adam and Eve after they had broke the one rule He gave them. (Genesis 3:11) – I mean, we know He already knew the answer right? He is God. Just like He knew the answer already with me too, but He wanted me to say it…. who told you this life would be easy? That you would not experience pain, loss, and trials? Not Me. My word says you will in fact experience these things , but it also always gives you a way out. A solution. Hope. And the promise that while He is not the author of the pain, or chaos, or loss and you may not even like or agree with the outcome… BUT He can and will use it for good, if you let Him.

There are people all over this world, living in situations unimaginable. What makes me special? Nothing. And I hate to break it to you, you aren’t either. Don’t get me wrong, we are very special to God, so special He sent His son to die for us (John 3:16) and also to those who love us deeply. Which is why death feels and is so personal. But in this world you will have troubles, the key is at the end of that verse… “BUT take heart!! for I have overcome the world.” Because He did, so can we! (John 16:33)

So weep when you must. Jesus did. There is no shame or time limit with holy grief. And this is not just about death. We grieve lots of things, but what I have learned we grieve the most- our own plans and ideas of how we think something should be. That’s okay too, just don’t camp out there and allow the enemy of your soul to gain ground. Instead kick any selfish, victim spirited mentality out the door. Because it’s not ever healthy to wallow in self pity.

Now, when that thought tries to come back, I take it captive and immediately thank God (Psalm 100:4) for the privilege to have loved so deeply I feel loss so deeply as well. And the fact that death is defeated for the believer, so the loss is temporary anyway. Because He lives so will I , and so can you. (John 14:19)

Happy Monday, praying you have a beautiful week.

Love, Shannon