KykNET Lent Guide 2023Sample

Week 3: Grieve

Day 3: Too Afraid to Feel

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matt 5:4 NIV

As a preacher, I’ve had to give unpleasant news to people on many occasions. I often experience a hesitance within myself. I was afraid that the bad news could cause great damage to them. Isn’t it true that we often fear that bad news and the pain that it causes might cause great damage? I’ve had to do with so many big, strong men who are too afraid to get in touch with their feelings. They can handle physical pain but are afraid of emotional pain. Some of them are too afraid to love, because the risk of giving themselves in a relationship and then being disappointed and experiencing pain, is too great.

It often happens in a relationship that people are not willing to fully commit, but keep themselves slightly outside of the relationship. It is like they are moving into a new house, but only want to unpack their suitcase and not really live there. It is as if many want to walk into a relationship, expecting only pleasure. And the moment there is pain, conflict, or uncertainty, they feel that the relationship is not working out and is no longer worth it.

We can be certain that we do not go through these losses and pain alone. He is there with us, He comforts and strengthens us. He takes us through it towards a better life.

Exercise:

Today you are invited to pause at the inner movements you experience when you fully experience your pain and even your happiness. Ask Him to make these movements clear to you and to help you with them.

Repetition Prayer:

Lord, I ask for the grace of tears, to mourn my losses.