Getting Beyond Grief
07/29/10 10:18 Filed in: Grief
The illness or loss of a loved one can be a very grievous, painful experience. But, by turning to the Divine Physician, we can find the spiritual healing we need
“. . . I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth on me, though he die, yet shall he live.” (John 11: 19-27)
Caring for a sick loved one and grieving their loss is an intensely painful and personal process. Though some people recover faster than others, the response of Martha to the illness and death of her brother, Lazarus, was truly remarkable.
First of all, as soon as her brother became ill, Martha sent word to Jesus, the Divine Physician. She acted as a healthcare advocate for her brother, who was too sick to care for himself. Today, more than ever, patients need a healthcare advocate to help them deal with insurance issues, gain access to the proper care and understand and follow their physician’s prescribed regimen.
Second, when Lazarus died, Martha didn’t let her grief paralyze her. For a mourner to leave her home during the seven days of “sitting shiva” was contrary to Jewish burial custom. But Martha didn’t stand on ceremony. Her grief may have been unbearable, but she refused to let it bring her down. She made a conscious effort to revive her spirits. She left her sister Mary “sitting shiva” in the home while she went looking for Jesus.
Third, when Martha found Jesus, she wasn’t angry with God. She didn’t blame Jesus for not answering her initial plea. Her faith was unshaken. With tears streaming down her cheeks, she approached Jesus, saying, “whatsoever thou shalt ask of God, God will give you.” Patients are often too feverish and confused to pray for themselves. They need a caregiver who will intercede on their behalf with God.
In the face of Martha’s grief, Jesus was moved to tears. She brought Him to the tomb of her brother and Jesus brought Lazarus back to life.
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