I watched a powerful video this morning that was set to a song called Jealous of the Angels. The video was about a girl whose baby only lived for 8 hours due to anencephaly (a fatal condition where the baby is born without parts of the brain and skull). The video was heartbreaking to watch as they held, bathed and loved their beautiful child, Grayson.

Sadly Facebook had banned the photos of their son suggesting the photos were too graphic for their site…and yet Facebook is constantly bombarded with half naked photos/ads that are no less graphic??? Don’t even get me started..

But this post isn’t about Facebook. It’s about one particular lyric in the song.

Click Jealous of the Angels to hear the song.

There will be another angel **
Around the throne tonight 
Your love lives on inside of me, 
And I will hold on tight 
It’s not my place to question, 
Only God knows why 
I’m just jealous of the angels 
Around the throne tonight 

I’m not sure if you’re in a season of loss right now. Unfortunately, I know quite a few people who are and some that will soon be. Death is never easy no matter the circumstance or age. That’s why it’s important to just love those who are in that season. A hug or a kind gesture speaks volumes over any words you have to offer.

I’ve heard that a friend’s silent presence brings peace and comfort during times of grief. And I think I know why…

Because Only God knows why. He’s the only One who knows why an untimely death or sickness or disease has been allowed to happen. We can’t answer that question. So please don’t try. And for Heaven’s sake, DON’T USE CLICHES LIKE-

“He/She’s in a better place.” 

“Everything happens for a reason.”

“Time heals all wounds.”

“At least _________.” 

 “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” 

All of those bring ZERO comfort for someone who is grieving a loss. It’s sad that we are beyond ill educated in how to help someone through a time of grief. I think mostly we are just uncomfortable with silence. We feel like we should have something to say, but we don’t. Can I tell you something?? THAT’S OKAY!! You’re not suppose to have an explanation for what cannot be explained.

So what can you do to help someone during their season of sadness?? It’s simple really.

LOVE WITHOUT WORDS.

Only God knows why tragedies occur so learn to be okay with the silence. Don’t feel like you have to say something.

I believe there’s a reason we have no words in the midst of someone else’s grief…

When we can’t love with our words, we’re forced to love with action.

So if you know someone who is grieving today, go love them with action. And please remember, that only God knows why.

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** There will be another angel around the throne tonight is a lyric from that song that is sweet in sentiment but not true by scripture. The Bible is very clear that those who’ve accepted Christ as their Savior do NOT become angels when we die. Seek pastoral advice if you have questions in this area. Billy Graham wrote about this as well.

“God needed another angel” is another a cliche that is false and not helpful in the midst of grief. Please don’t use this one either.