When you go to the house of mourning, carry a chess pie - June 8

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalm 56, 57, [58]; PM Psalm 64, 65; Eccles. 7:1-14; Gal. 4:12-20; Matt. 15:21-28

A childhood friend from Montgomery had a family tradition: when going to a funeral, always bring homemade chess pie to the family grieving the death of their loved one. This was a way to show support and love. As I think about that act of care (and the delicious pie that went along with it), I am struck by what solidarity comes from mourning.

My friend Erin lost her mom to cancer five years ago. She helped care for her mom until the end. Last week, Erin started a meal sign-up for Gayle, whose mother just died from a long battle with cancer. Friends take turns, delivering food and spending time on the back porch in conversation. Bound together across years of shared dinners in a supper club, we are not feasting at a delicious common meal in a large group right now. Rather, we are sitting with Gayle in grief, sharing stories, tears, and space. Though grief can make us feel so alone, what solidarity comes from mourning.

And so, these words from Ecclesiastes today echo in my ears:

“It is better to go to the house of mourning
   than to go to the house of feasting;
for this is the end of everyone,
   and the living will lay it to heart.”

While some joyous events like graduations and weddings have been curtailed or postponed, grieving does not stop. The writer of Ecclesiastes instills aspects of wisdom today, drawing us into reflection about our lives and our mortality. Perhaps during this time of conflict, illness, and isolation, it is a little easier for some to slip into a mode of pondering some of the realities around us. Maybe others of us would rather ignore harsh truths, as it can be overwhelming.

By wandering around in the “house of mourning” and “laying to heart” the truth that death will inevitably come to each of us, how can God direct us toward deeper, centered living today? How can reflecting on the losses we have experienced shape the choices we make to love those who are still with us? How will we lend our hands, voices, and prayers to those who need our support?

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • For whom or what do you mourn?

  • What disturbs you about grief or mourning?

Daily Challenge

Think about the losses you’ve experienced, and those who have shared their grief with you. Then, pray to God. As you exhale, offer up the pains and joys that you feel or remember. As you inhale, breathe in God’s hope of resurrection in Jesus. Close with the Lord’s Prayer.

Katherine Harper