We mourn for dreams unfulfilled, for loved ones, for a world which has lost its way. We mourn as we watch news broadcasts and TV and movie films glorifying violence, mayhem, madness, and murder. We mourn over injustice. We mourn as moral values and brotherly love face counter culture and “woke”, tearing us apart.
Isaiah told us God has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. He will give beauty for ashes, joy instead of mourning, praise instead of despair. For the LORD has planted {his people} like strong and graceful oaks for His own glory.” (chapter 6)
Matthew 5:4 says those who mourn will be comforted. Paul suggests in Romans 12:15 that we are to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another.” And in verses 17-21: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge , my friend, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. ‘If you enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Jeremiah 31:13 promises God says He will “turn mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.”
Ultimately, in God’s good timing when His kingdom comes, this is the cure for our mourning and all concerns of this life: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne {Jesus} said, ‘I am making everything new!'”
If we keep the faith, joy will come in the morning, for it is said in Ecclesiastes 4, everything has its time. Verse 4 reminds us: “a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance.” God is sovereign. His ways are not our ways, but we can be assured, He will bring us through time of mourning if we trust His plan.
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