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Good Morning. After my first husband died, I was surprised by how exhausting it is, being bereaved. I didn’t recall ever previously having heard of that aspect of grief.Ìý

But dealing with the emotional burden of loss left me completely tired out, for months.Ìý

I’ve recognised something similar in these coronavirus times. Regardless of how busy I’ve been, there’s been a deeper, persistent, fatigue. Alongside all the strains and stresses I suspect there’s additionally been a draining sense of the losses we’ve been facing.Ìý

For some – indeed, for far too many – there is actual bereavement through the deaths of family members, friends and acquaintances; and other losses have piled up alongside: thwarted plans, postponed weddings; cancelled holidays; missed graduations; birthdays barely marked. Even now as we can meet people, too often it’s with no hugs, no handshakes.Ìý

We have lost so much, including freedom and spontaneity – and it’s entirely normal that we should grieve all this. It’s necessary. It’s healthy.Ìý

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.’

He didn’t mean bereavement is a good thing. Instead he offers an open invitation to acknowledge the weight of loss, and so discover God’s consolation, which includes refreshment, resilience and steadfast endurance for all that still lies ahead.Ìý

Lord Jesus Christ, you promised those who mourn would find blessing. Help us to recognise our losses and be unafraid to grieve, so we may find your consolation, and in it fresh energy and strength for each coming day. Amen.

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