Read: Luke 7:11–17
In biblical times, a widow without a son was hopeless—there was no one to protect her or provide for her, and society typically left these women to fend for themselves. This woman in Luke 7 had already lost her husband—now, she was burying her only son.
Jesus simply happened upon the funeral, and as he approached, his heart was moved with compassion. He saw the woman’s hurt and fear, and he felt compelled to act. He walked up to touch the coffin and spoke to the dead boy: “Get up.” And he did.
Grief is heavy. It can make the world feel distant and dim. Sometimes people don’t know what to say or do, so they pull away. But Jesus doesn’t avoid grief—he moves toward it. And when he shows up, he brings life where there was only loss.
If you’re grieving, know this: Jesus sees you. He hasn’t overlooked your pain. His heart is still full of compassion. And while healing may not always look like resurrection, his presence always brings comfort and hope.
Today, allow yourself to be honest with God about your sorrow. Let him meet you in it. And if someone else around you is walking through grief, don’t wait to be asked. Show up with compassion. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer is simply being present, just like Jesus.