Blessed are those that mourn

 The beatitude that we talked about was "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4)

Kevin led the discussion about how 'to mourn' could mean to grieve, or to feel sorrow for sins.  The table talks were about the book of Joel and the idea of group blame within a community and later about how they have seen God in a time when they needed comfort.  

If you have any questions, email Denise at Denise@yardleychurch.org
Have a blessed week, all!

Week #2 Challenges:
1. Going. Going. Gone.  Consider yourself and those you know who mourn the loss of broken dreams or futures that will never happen.  How does God redeem the dreams and futures of those he loves?

2. 99 balloons closer to the kingdom.  Watch "99 Balloons" on youtube.  Share the burden of mourning by getting a helium-filled balloon and letting it go for those who are in mourning, remembering God's promise of comfort.

3. A panoramic view.  Go to tinyurl.com/cxljo8.  Learn and pray about those mourning in situations of war, exile, genocide or poverty.

4.  An internal war.  Those who serve in our military are at a high risk of depression and suicide.  Go to anysoldier.com to send a letter or package to a soldier needing comfort.

5.Wanna see someone's face light up?  Attend a hospital visitation with your pastor.

6.Remember life before singing animation and e-cards?  Handwrite a letter to someone in your life who is struggling with a hopeless or depressing situation.  A text or phone call would be nice.  A list of YUMC shut-ins is available.  Remember God will be doing a lot of comforting through you; it's by Christ that you can do all things (Phil. 4:13).

7.Make a List.  Ask 3 people what sins they feel are most prevalent in our nation's teen population.  Spend quiet time allowing God to break your heart for those sins, and if applicable ask God to free you from a sin's hold on your life.

8. Create your own. Create a challenge for your family that reflects 'Blessed are those who mourn...'