From Heartbreak to Hope: Walking Through the Stages of Grief

One can only imagine the grief Mary Magdalene felt when she heard that Jesus had been sentenced to death. She must have asked, “How could the one who has brought so much joy to the world, set me and so many others free from demonic torment, be crucified?” She was certainly heartbroken as she witnessed Jesus’ death and burial. Mary couldn’t sleep, so she returned to the tomb before daylight, only to discover that the tomb was empty (John 20:1). Appearing as a gardener, Jesus asked her why she was crying. Then He called her by name, revealing His identity. Mary clung to Him desperately, determined never to let Him out of her sight. Jesus told Mary to stop clinging to Him, indicating He had not ascended (John 20:17a).

Having completed His redemptive work on earth, Jesus’ relationship with His disciples changed. They would no longer have Him physically present with them. Jesus would ascend physically back into heaven and return to be present with them in the person of the Holy Spirit. They had His words and His Spirit to bring them to mind. When Jesus told Mary to stop clinging to Him, He was helping her shift her perspective to the new life He had given her. He then gives her the task of declaring to His disciples His resurrection and soon ascension back into heaven (v.17b).

Grief is natural, and returning to an emotionally stable state takes time.

Grief is an emotional and physical reaction to a personal loss. It is painful, both mentally and physically. The process can be accompanied by guilt, hurt, and hostility. Grief is natural, and returning to an emotionally stable state takes time. After the initial shock, one may feel numb to the world, followed by a struggle between fantasy and reality, thinking they will appear as usual. Eventually, reality sets in, and there is a release of emotion. After the release, the physical pain begins to dissipate. As the pain begins to ease up and a normal routine resumes, the slow work of grief continues as we deal with memories of our loved ones in various situations and locations. The final stage is the acceptance of our loss. It becomes easier to talk about our loved one, and the stabbing pain of their memory is replaced with gratitude and affection.

Like Jesus with Mary, our goal is to gently encourage them to let go of what they once had and start accepting life without their loved ones.

In ministry, I am often faced with families who are grieving the loss of a loved one. They are usually in the initial stages of shock and disbelief. There is little I can say to give them immediate relief. Being present speaks volumes and provides a sounding board to help them cope with the shock. Guiding them through the stages of grief is never easy. Like Jesus with Mary, our goal is to gently encourage them to let go of what they once had and start accepting life without their loved ones. Join me in praying for the many families adjusting to this reality. This ministry is possible because of God’s grace and your faithful partnership. Thank you!

In Christ,

Derrick Poston

North American Mission Board

Great Adventure Missions

678-665-8164