Two-minute read.
“Robbie had an accident.”
Sitting in the parking lot of Home Depot, I arrived home from Washington, D.C. that morning. Getting up early, I completed my work and drove to Williamsburg, returning around 10:00 a.m. Receiving the phone call from a dear friend, I never expected to hear those words. Robbie, my spiritual mentor and women’s Bible study leader’s 16-year-old son, had snuck out of his bedroom window and gone to a party. After dropping off a friend, the driver lost control of the car, landing in a tree, and both died instantly.
Immediately, I went to my friend’s house, where others had gathered to weep with her. We spent the next few days by her side, helping with arrangements. I will never forget the image of my friend, unable to walk, leaning on her husband for support, as they made their way to the casket the day of the funeral. For the first time, I confronted the brutal reality that bad things happen to God-fearing people who love and serve the Lord.
As the days and years passed, I wept many times with my friend. Words couldn’t bring her son back. God met us in the pit and helped us through those dark days. Knowing Robbie had given his life to Jesus brought comfort in the heavenly reunion that would one day occur. Years later, my friend succumbed to cancer, joining Robbie in heaven. At her funeral, we spent most of the time singing worship songs, because she now lives in the glory of the Savior, reunited with her son.
Just like we will have seasons of rejoicing with others, we will also experience seasons of weeping. Typically, the seasons of sadness come unexpectedly, like in Robbie’s case. Tragic accidents or lengthy illnesses can usher in a period of sorrow. From job loss to broken relationships, weeping comes in many forms. God doesn’t expect us to take away the pain or solve the issue, but He does want us to weep with those who weep. We don’t need words; sharing in others’ grief and crying with them brings them comfort. Sadness isolates people, making them feel alone. By weeping with those who weep, we help dispel loneliness and draw them back into community.
Weep with those who weep, mourn with those who mourn. Give them the gift of presence to help them persevere through their heartache.
Journal Questions:
When have you wept with someone who wept?
How has someone weeping with you helped you persevere?
In what ways does God comfort us through shared tears?
Friendship Application:
Weep with those who weep today and let them know you care.
