A MOURNER by E. E. S.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 20, 1868

A MOURNER.

By E. E. S.

Jesus was a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. He knew what it was to be a mourner. He once stood by the grave of a departed friend. That friend had died in his absence, and been buried four days before he reached the afflicted family. With the deepest tenderness and love, he inquires, “Where have ye laid him?” The weeping company bade him come and see; and as they led him along, “Jesus groaned in spirit and was troubled.” They drew near and “Jesus wept.” In the bitterness of his soul he wept over the work of the destroyer.

Oh! is there not here consolation for the bereaved mourner, as all that remains of some cherished loved one is consigned to the tomb? Weep, sorrow-stricken one; you will find relief in tears. It is not unchristian to weep.

Be comforted with the assurance that God is refining thee, but not with silver. He has chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. Look forward to the glorious resurrection of the just, and rejoice that the departed rest in hope. They are safe from the perils of the last days. Henceforth there is laid up for them a crown of life. God's people have but a short pilgrimage remaining. Trouble, sorrow, anguish, and weeping, are almost over. That same blessed Jesus that bedewed Lazarus' grave with tears, will come again, and if he finds us overcomers, our heart shall rejoice, and that joy no man can take from us. E. E. S.

Fairfield, Conn.