Those Who Mourn

In our world of positive thinking, good vibes, and escaping pain at all costs, we prefer to gravitate toward wishing for the best, rather than feeling sadness. During times of difficulty, we exhort others to “keep your chin up” and “don’t get down.” We encourage others, “it’ll be okay,” “stay positive,” “things will get better.” We utilized euphemisms to soften the pain of death – lost, passed away. So what do we do when life’s not okay, when things don’t get better? How do we go on when we experience the harsh realities of sin and the sorrows of death?

In His Sermon on the Mount, JESUS taught His disciples about living for the Kingdom of Heaven while still living on earth, The beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10) are the character qualities of those approved by God in His kingdom. The first beatitude we discussed last week was “poverty of spirit” – intellectual understanding of our spiritual helpless and emptiness apart from God’s grace. The second beatitude is the emotional counterpart – comprehension of our complete sinfulness and need for God’s grace.

Those who mourn over sin and death find comfort in Christ’s victory over sin and death. Living follows lamenting. Comfort follows mourning. Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.

sermon by: Larry Murray
date: 04.25.2021
Sermon Notes: Google Doc or PDF
Link to Service Video