“Do not hurry as you walk with grief. It does not help the journey. Walk slowly, pausing often. Do not hurry as you walk with grief. Be not disturbed by memories that come unbidden. Swiftly forgive and let Christ speak for you unspoken words. Unfinished conversations will be resolved in Him. Be not disturbed.
Be gentle with the one who walks with grief. If it is you, be gentle with yourself. Swiftly forgive. Walk slowly, pausing often. Take time, be gentle as you walk with grief.”
Written by Andy Raine. Taken from Northumbria Community’s Celtic Daily Prayer published by Collins.
I love this benediction because it is a reminder to treat grieving people with gentleness. And it doesn’t exclude you! If you are the one grieving, it is good to treat yourself with gentleness. Sometimes, in Christian circles, we shame ourselves out of the grief process because we believe that someone is in a better place – with God. The truth is. Losing someone is sad. Even Jesus wept when a loved one died (cf. John 11:35).
Sometimes we think of gentleness being a feminine characteristic. But did you know that gentleness is listed among the fruits of the spirit? What a shame it would be if half of God’s people (all the men) were denied gentleness? Did you also know that Jesus actually describes himself as one who is “gentle and humble in heart”? He is a place where we can “find rest for our souls” (cf. Matt. 11:29).
Gentleness is for everyone. Both as recipients and as fruit of the spirit’s work in our lives. How can you make room for gentleness? Is there something you need to let go of? Is there a practice you can add that will restore gentleness in your spirit?
With gratitude,
Pastor Karen
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