Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.

It is probably safe to assume that we all have experienced a season of grief and mourning in our lives, perhaps more than once. I wonder how many of us would describe that as a blessing? As I studied and reflected on this passage I discovered that Jesus is actually speaking about something more then just personal suffering. I believe Jesus is saying that the mourning is for the sinfulness that causes the suffering. Grieving is ultimately for a world that is lost and ruined. There is a gulf that widens between disciples of Jesus and others. A disciple of Jesus is a person who ‘marches to the beat of a different drum’. However this grieving is not without hope, death does not have the final victory! And in Christ, we are strengthened to bear these sorrows! I think of Psalm 121 and Nehemiah 8:10. I think of songs like Blessed Be the Name and It is Well with My Soul as I reflect on this passage.

I wonder what songs come to your mind as your reflect on this passage? What songs are you singing in your children and family ministries that convey this?

Here is a teaching idea you may consider:

Blessed are those who mourn lesson plan

Here is a downloadable conversation starter card you can print and give to families to reflect upon together.

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