The most familiar biblical image is most likely from Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan.
Helping the hurting.
I cannot begin to estimate the number of people my wife, Michelle, and I have counseled since the suicide of our son, Jordan. Countless people who have, themselves, suffered the loss of a loved one due to suicide.
The first one to contact us happened within the first week after Jordan’s death.
Recently, I was counseling yet another precious individual who is suffering from what psychologist refer to as “complicated grief” (grief associated with suicide).
And I am, dare I say, grateful that I can.
My friends, Jesus didn’t pull any punches when, on the night before he would be crucified, told his disciples, “In this world you will have trouble (complicated grief, unspeakable suffering, depression, pain, etc.); but take heart, I have overcome the world.” (emphasis mine)
Michelle and I have, over time, found that, after Jordan’s death, we had a choice to make: (1) live in despair, crawling up in a ball of pain and simply count time until we die, or (2) dump every last ounce of our pain on Christ, allowing him to take our pain and use it to give others hope which, in turn, gives purpose to our pain.
We chose “option 2.”
Every one of your reading this has experienced tremendous pain in your life. Never ever underestimate the power of your story to give hope to those who come behind you.
Paul encouraged the hurting Corinthian believers, “God comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
Because of the Cross and the Empty Tomb, there is hope.
As Billy Graham once said,
“I’ve read the last page of the Bible, it’s all going to turn out all right.”
The psalmist wrote, “Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Love to you all, Nick