Mourning

About this book

Mwangi is the young son of missionaries living in Kenya. He enjoys a happy childhood surrounded by his family, his faith, and the familiar sights and sounds of home. But one day, Mwangi receives heartbreaking news from his parents: his beloved grandfather has passed away.Mwangi is overwhelmed by sadness. He misses his grandfather and struggles to understand what he should do with the grief he feels. Nothing seems able to make him happy again.Mwangi's friend Kamau notices how sad the boy has become and decides to try to cheer him up. Kamau invites Mwangi to ride with him in his green matatu. Usually, a ride in the matatu would be an exciting adventure, filled with the sights and sounds of Kenya. This time, however, even the ride cannot take Mwangi's mind off his grandfather.Kamau realizes that his young friend does not need to forget his sadness. He needs help understanding it.The two stop at a small tea shop, where Kamau talks with Mwangi about death, mourning, and the hope Christians have in Jesus. He tells Mwangi about the death of Lazarus and reminds him that when Jesus came to the tomb of His friend, Jesus wept. If Jesus could mourn someone He loved, then there is nothing wrong with Mwangi mourning his grandfather.Their conversation helps Mwangi see his grief differently. Following Jesus does not mean that losing someone will not hurt. Mourning is a natural response to losing someone we love, and healing takes time. But Christians do not have to mourn without hope.Mwangi still misses his grandfather, but he begins to find comfort in knowing that his grandfather knew Jesus. Death does not have the final word. Those who die knowing Jesus will live with Him.Through the friendship of Kamau, a ride in a green matatu, and a simple conversation over tea, Mwangi learns that faith does not make our grief disappear. Instead, Jesus gives us comfort and hope as we walk through it.