[D]ust returns to the earth as it once was, and the life breath returns to God who gave it. // Ecclesiastes 12:8
Death is an everyday experience.
The small sacrifices you make for family or friends are sometimes a conscious, yet often unconscious, dying to self. We experience small deaths when a beloved friend moves or a child leaves the nest or when you retire, or the career you put your blood, sweat, and tears into comes to an end. Life may not end, but it is dramatically altered, leaving a hollow space we don't know how to fill.
Then, there is death when the "dust returns to the earth as it once was, and the life breath returns to God who gave it" (Ecclesiastes 12:8). This death causes a rupture in the earth's atmosphere and your soul, leaving a cavern deep within the recesses of our hearts.
Grief is hard.
It comes out of nowhere, triggering emotions you have never suffered and memories that invoke joy and trauma sealed away.
A song on the radio, the aroma of perfume or cologne, or even the taste of your grandmother's Christmas punch can open up the floodgates of emotion.
We must remember we are the resurrection people. The Apostles’ lives were ruptured when the Son of Man was "handed over to men" (Luke 9:44). Only one Apostle remained to behold Jesus crucified on the Cross. The Apostles even locked themselves in the Upper Room to grieve the loss they felt before Jesus passed through the door and offered them peace.
Sister, whatever you are grieving, allow yourself to feel every emotion. Sing that song at the top of your lungs that reminds you of a road trip with your best friend who moved. Spray your husband's cologne on your dog so it feels like he is nearby. Invite the Lord into the areas of loss, emptiness, and sorrow. He wants to meet you there to heal you and reveal the joy of resurrection.
Yes, grief is complicated. But when God is holding your hand and revealing His eternal plan, you can display your wounds and surrender them to the Lord. I invite you to do that now.
He wants to heal you. // @socaltriciatClick to tweet
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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