Sad Days

My uncle passed away suddenly yesterday. His wife, children and grandchildren will have to face a difficult Christmas. Death is part of life but that doesn't make it easy. We look for ways to deal with the hurt and lighten the pain, but I think we have a God who can take our pain, anger, sorrow, sadness, questions, and doubts. It's not faith that keeps us from dealing with the hurt. Faith allows us to be real and honest with our feelings and know that whatever I think or say, I am still loved by the one who created me. I'm going to the funeral and my words of encouragement will have nothing to do with him being in a better place, even though that may be true. My words will hopefully lead them to take off the "strong" mask and fall into the arms of a God who knows loss and gives peace to those in need, even when answers aren't enough. If they don't want to fall in His arms, mine will be there.