Christ Our Comfort

September is National Suicide Awareness Month. We all know someone—perhaps not a stranger, but yourself or a family member—who has battled that dark void. The church must not remain silent on these matters, as our silence could be perceived as neglect. Instead, we are urged to speak truth, bring light into the darkness, and offer the comfort of Christ to those with broken hearts.

Let us meditate upon three pastoral truths: 1) The value of recognizing and speaking openly about suicide, particularly in the church; 2) that healing is a process and happens over time; 3) that no one has to walk this journey alone.

The Significance of Awareness

The Bible does not remain silent on the topic of despair. The psalmist pleads, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). Elijah, weak and afraid, felt tired and prayed for death under a broom tree (1 Kings 19:4). Even our Lord, Jesus on the cross, shouts, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). If the Word of God is not afraid to call that suffering by name, then neither should the church be afraid.

In his appeal to the church in Galatia, St. Paul commands: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). For us to carry one another’s burdens, we must first be capable of listening and speaking truthfully about things like depression, mental illness, or suicidal tendencies.

The church cannot be a place of stigma, but rather one of refuge.

In today's world, where individuals often face judgment and discrimination based on their life choices, backgrounds, or beliefs, the church must serve as a sanctuary for all. A true church embodies the principles of love, acceptance, and understanding, welcoming everyone regardless of their past or present struggles. This sanctuary should provide a safe space where individuals can come together to seek solace, support, and spiritual growth without fear of being ostracized or marginalized.

The church must foster an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences and vulnerabilities, knowing that they will be met with compassion rather than condemnation. Moreover, the church can play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and dismantling the stigma that often surrounds certain groups, such as those grappling with mental health issues, addiction, or other life challenges.

By actively promoting a genuine understanding of mental health, the church can help to cultivate a community that not only embraces diversity but also encourages healing and reconciliation. In doing so, the church not only fulfills its spiritual mission but also becomes a beacon of hope for those who may feel lost or unwelcome in other aspects of society. It is through this commitment to being a refuge that the church can truly reflect its core values and serve as a guiding light for all who seek comfort and connection in their spiritual journey.

Healing is a Journey

It's not time that heals, but Jesus.

Healing doesn't happen instantly. Believing that Jesus is our Healer brings vitality and joy to our spirit. Martin Luther, who understood the burden of despair, expressed it like this: “When I am to be assaulted by heaviness of spirit... I hasten thither to the Psalms.” Luther's own challenges remind us that everyone, even those in church leadership, has faced darkness. Yet, they find comfort in God's Word, church fellowship, and the breaking of bread to strengthen their calling as children of God.

The Israelites wandered in the desert for forty years before reaching the Promised Land. In much the same way, the path from despair to hope can be long, filled with obstacles and small victories. Yet, we take comfort in the Psalmist's words: "God is near to the broken-hearted and those crushed in spirit He will save" (Psalm 34:18). Even if God's presence doesn't always manifest as instant deliverance, it accompanies us throughout the journey.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer reminds us with these words: “Through the Psalms, we discover how to pray both individually and collectively as God's people, and most importantly, we understand that healing comes through consistently turning to God.” Thus, healing is not an immediate solution. It is a journey—a daily turning to the One who heals the brokenhearted and announces freedom for the captives (Isaiah 61:1).

You Are Not Alone

One of the most perilous falsehoods that despair suggests is: “You are alone.” In contrast, the Gospel conveys a different message. Where the enemy promotes death, Jesus brings life. In Christ, we are not abandoned. Jesus embraced our humanity, took on our sins, and endured suffering alongside us, even expressing a moment of seeming abandonment by God on the cross. Yet, the resurrection demonstrates that death and despair do not have to be the final say.

Hope prevails. Life prevails. Christ prevails. Because He lives, we too shall live.

Once, Luther declared: “Our Lord has inscribed the promise of resurrection not only in books, but in every leaf of springtime.” Just as winter's slumber allows for new life, in Christ, all our darkest times are entrusted to Him to be renewed.

And so, to all who wrestle with despair: You are not alone. God has sent brothers and sisters in the faith, pastors, counselors, and friends to walk with us. And most importantly, Christ himself declares his own truth, saying: "Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). His invitation is personal. His hope is real. His rest is for you.

Jesus is the Light that no darkness can overcome (John 1:5).

Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. We bring before You all who bear depression, despair, and suicidal thoughts. Wrap them in your comfort, hold them in your power, and keep their spirit in the one true faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives with you and the Holy Spirit, One God now and forever. Amen