Articles
Blessed Are Those Who Mourn
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (Matthew 5:4)
The common philosophy of our time states that we are to avoid all un-pleasantries at all costs. Any situation that might allow our comfort to be compromised is to be viewed with contempt. Psychology even has a “hierarchy of needs” that focuses singularly on self-actualization through the avoidance of going without. Well, Jesus offers some different advice than Maslow and his fellow humanists.
Jesus tells us to mourn when mourning is necessary (cf. Ecclesiastes 3:4). And it is from time to time because of the problem of sin. Pain and suffering are not to be avoided at all costs, but rather addressed properly. Pain and suffering are real; avoidance will not provide the solution.
Jesus Himself often showed this profitable emotion (Luke 19:41; John 11:33-35). He felt pain and He can sympathize with this weakness of mortality. At times, we are even called to struggle for doing what is right and surely mourning will result. When pain comes, when loved ones pass away, when the horrid ills of suffering come knocking, respond accordingly by taking the time to mourn AND to bless God (cf. Job 1:21). He will comfort you!
