Bereavement &Joy

Send us Fan MailGrief has a way of shaking everything- your emotions, your thoughts, even your sense of stability.  In this episode, we talk about what it looks like to lean on God's promises when everything feels uncertain.  If you've ever felt overwhelmed, numb, or unsure of where God is in your pain, this conversation will gently remind you that His truth is still steady, even when you are not.  You don't have to hold it all together- He is holding [email protected]

Send a textGrief often makes us feel like we're falling behind in healing. But Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 reminds us that life is made up of seasons- including a time to mourn.  In this episode, we talk about honoring the season of grief, allowing space for sorrow, and recognizing that God draws near to us even in the weeping. [email protected]

Send a textGrief has a way of wearing down both body and soul. In this episode, we reflect on Psalm 31:9–10 and the honest prayer of David, who cried out to God in deep distress. His words remind us that sorrow is not a sign of weak faith—it is an invitation to draw near to God.Together, we’ll explore what it means to entrust our grief to the Lord: not by denying our pain, but by placing it into His hands. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or quietly carrying sorrow, this episode offers biblical encouragement and a gentle reminder that you don’t have to carry it [email protected]

Send a textPsalms 34:18 - The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.God doesn't distance himself from pain - He draws near to it.When life breaks your heart, it can feel like God has stepped back. Silent. Distant. Unmoved.But what if the opposite is true?In this episode, we explore the powerful truth that God does not distance Himself from pain - He draws near to it.   If you have ever wondered where God is in your heartbreak, your loss, or your confusion, this conversation will remind you that He is not absent - He is close. Closer than you think. Closer than your fear tells you.You are not abandoned in your struggle.  You are [email protected]

Send a textProverbs 3:5-6"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make straight your paths."What does it really mean to trust God will all your heart when your heart feels shattered?When loss, disappointment, or unanswered prayers leave you wounded, trusting God can feel impossible- or even unfair.  Yet Scripture calls us to trust Him not with a healed heart, but with the one we have right now... broken pieces and all!In this episode, we gently explore what wholehearted trust looks like in seasons of grief.  We talk about releasing the pressure to be "strong", bringing your honest pain to God, and learning how trust can coexist with heartbreak.  You'11 be reminded that God is not intimidated by your questions, your tears, or your fragile faith.If your heart is hurting and you're struggling to trust God the way you used to, this conversation is for you.  Come as you are. Let God meet you in the brokenness-and begin to rebuild trust one surrendered moment at a [email protected]

Send a textIn this episode, we talk about what it really means to actively hold on to God when life is painful, confusing or overwhelming.  When answers are absent and emotions feel heavy, choosing to cling to God often looks less like confidence and more like persistence. It's waking up and deciding- again and again- to trust His heart even when you don't understand his ways. If you're walking through grief, uncertainty, or a season where faith feels fragile, this episode is an invitation to remember holding on to God is an act of faith, a declaration of hope, and a powerful step toward healing- one choice at a [email protected]

Send a textTrusting God is easy when we understand His ways- but what about when we don't agree?  In this week's episode, we explore what it means to trust God even when His plans feel confusing, painful, or unfair.  We talk honestly about surrender, faith in the tension, and choosing trust when our hearts are wrestling with God.  If you've ever loved God and still questioned Him, this conversation is for [email protected]

Send a textPsalms 121:1-2    " I lift my eyes to the hills - from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth."H- hold on to GodE - entrust Him with your painL - Lean on His promisesP - Preserve in faithIn this week's episode we are going to explore where we can find true lasting help. The steps we need to take to begin to find it and the reason we can believe it is [email protected]

Send a textFollowing Jesus doesn't require perfection-only willingness.  This podcast is an invitation to take the next step toward Jesus, no matter how small it feels.  Together, we explore faith, healing and everyday life through the lens of grace, hope and God's unfailing presence. [email protected]

Send a textGod meets us in our grief with gentleness- never demanding strength we do not yet possess.So.....Take a deep breathTrust that God will meet you exactly where you are.Release the weight of others' expectations and the pressure to "be strong"Rest in the everlasting arms of Jesus. Knowing He comes to you in your own place and at your own pace.In Him you are given a safe space to heal, to breathe again and to slowly rediscover the strength that grief may have hidden- but never taken [email protected]

Send a textFew experiences test our faith as deeply as the loss of a loved one.But what if the fire you are walking through is not meant to consume you- what if it is meant to reifine you, strenthen you, and prove the depth of your faith?What if, in the moments when your faith feels fragile and slipping away, it is actually being fortified - becoming steadier, deeper, and more enduring than ever before?join us in this week's episode as we explore the possibility that grief is not the end of faith, but a refining fire that shapes [email protected]

Send a textSalvation does not only affect eternity it means a changed live now!You may be wondering what the helmet of Salvation has to do with your grief.  Check out this week's episode and find out How the helmet of salvation protects and guides you through your grief journey.You have an enemy that wants to kill steal and destroy your life.  The hope of Salvation if the one thing the enemy cannot take away from [email protected]

Send a textInteresting question huh?  Do you know the difference between the two?  They are radically different attitudes.  One will leave you insecure and doubting unable to maintain your footing while the other will anchor you in a steadfast truth.This week let's explore the difference between optimism and Hope in our grief journey.  It was an enlightening concept for me and has helped me think differently and learn how to live in the reality that things are not ok, but God is here and God is faithful. [email protected]

Send a text"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good!  Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!  Psalms 34:8Sometimes faith is tasting the sweetness of God in the saltiness of our tears.In this week's episode I will share the analogy God showed me about how salt enhances sweetness like our grief enhances the goodness of God.  This bereavement and joy dance that we are learning to do as we navigate life after loss. [email protected]

Send a textJames 1:17  " Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."We can so easily get caught up in an attitude of entitlement without even realizing it.  Our loved ones are good and perfect gifts that are sent down from the Father as a blessing to us.  Often, we lose sight of this and take for granted the time God has blessed us with them.In this week's episode I will talk about how God changed my perspective and heart posture.  Allowing me to see things from the light of His truth and the eyes of eternity.  Opening access in my heart for both bereavement and joy to coexist and allowing the freedom to continue to walk out my purpose in the physical realm. [email protected]

Send a text"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" Psalms 147:3In last week's podcast we learned what it means to draw near to God so He can draw near to you.  This week I will share my experience under that tree with God. Letting you see how I showed up for God and how he responded to me.  Learning about the healing power found in our tears.  When we allow God to capture them in a jar, then turning them into living water that can be poured out over us to restore and refresh our souls. [email protected]

Send a textGet down on your knees before the master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.   James 4:10 (The Message)Scripture tells us that if we will draw near to God he will draw near to us!  In this grief journey, we as believers have to draw near to God to find true strength and healing.   Do you know what it looks like to draw near to God?In this episode we will explore the Do's and Don'ts to making room to meet Jesus and allow Him the space to draw near to us.  Then allow our hearts and minds to be open to receive what God has to offer. [email protected]

Send a textHebrews 12:1Death in this temporary world is crossing the finish line into the eternal reward of Heaven.  How could your perspective of death and grief change if you were able to understand that this life is a race and if you have accepted the free gift of grace bought for you on the cross then you are running for an eternal reward that will far outweigh your greatest accomplishments here. Check out this episode and find out how my vision of my dad and son winning the spiritual race gave me a new hope and peace for my broken heart. [email protected]

Send a textPsalms 34:18  The Message " If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; If your kicked in the gut he'll help you catch your breath."The book of Psalms expresses worship. Throughout its many pages, Psalms encourages its readers to praise God for who He is and what He had done.  The Psalms illuminate the greatness of our God, affirm His faithfulness to us in times of trouble, and remind us of the absolute centrality of His word. [email protected]

Send a textDid you know that Jesus was forsaken by God so that we never will be?  His covenant love is unbreakable.  Even when we feel alone, He is present.  We might feel forsaken in our grief, but God's presence is constant.  Feelings can lie but God's word does not!Isaiah 41: 10; Psalms 9:10; 2 Corinthains 4:9 [email protected]

Send a textDeath matters to God.  It was not part of the original design.  Life in the garden of Eden was made for eternal relationship but then entered sin.  So, God took death to battle and won!!  How can we not find solace in knowing the great depth God went to so that our separation will only be temporary as [email protected]

Send a textIn today's episode we are going to reflect on the story of the woman at the well.  Jesus has given me a beautiful analogy of how he meets us at the well of grief and provides "living water" that will help shape our perspective. [email protected]

Send a textProverbs 18:24  " A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother"Does this grief journey feel lonely and isolating?  What if I told you that you have a friend that is closer than a brother?   Listen to this episode as Jesus reveals his heart for us and how his companionship and loyalty means that we are never alone.   [email protected]

Send a textColossians 3:1-2When we grasp the reality of heaven then we can live the abundant live Jesus promised. It can happen right here and right now.  As citizens of heaven, we are just passing through this temporary world. [email protected]

Send a textRomans 5:3-5 and Romans 8:18Dare we change our perspective on grief and suffering and see it not as something that holds us down and keeps us back; but rather the very thing that can build our spiritual formation and make us more like [email protected]

Send a textEcclesiastes 7:14In today's episode we are going to unpack the truth that God is in the bad days just as much as the good days.   He has a purpose for them both they are a team that keeps us from taking things for granted.   In this journey you will have good and bad days, arranged by God, so that you will not take anything for granted.  Grieve definitely sobers us up to the fact that life is short and time is a precious gift. [email protected]

Send a textPsalm 100:4  "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name"I know what you are thinking, how can gratitude and grief even come out of the same mouth.  Gratitude is the last thing I am feeling in my grief.  In this episode I will share with you how I was able to shift my perspective from loss to gratitude. In doing so I was able to hold onto hope and have an eternal vision of my circumstances.  [email protected]

Send a textProverbs 19:21 "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."In today's episode you are going to get to hear a testimony that reflects the essence of this podcast title Bereavement and Joy.  The story of a prayer going out for a miraculous healing needing an organ that will require the death of another. How two family's lives, miles apart, will collide and bereavement and joy will merge to bring about a beautiful testimony of God's sovereign plan!  Intrigued?  Then I hope you will listen to today's episode.  It will touch your heart! [email protected]

Send a text"So we speak not to please man but to please God who tests our hearts" 1 Thessalonians 2:4"For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? or am I trying to please man?"  Galatians 1:10This life journey is a performance.  We all have a role and a purpose to play. What determines our success in our God given role is the audience we choose to perform for. [email protected]

Send a textDo you live with an eternal perspective or a temporal need for satisfaction?  You know time is short and tomorrow is not promised.  Nothing reminds us of that truth more than this grief journey!   In today's episode we will explore what it means to have treasures stored up in heaven and also reflect on the treasures we can leave behind.  Without the hope of eternity there is no joy only bereavement.  How grateful I am for the joy I have in knowing that eternity awaits. [email protected]

Send a textPsalms 55:22 tells us to CAST our burdens on Him and he will sustain us!  Casting is not a passive action. It is an aggressive throwing of the thing or things that are weighing us down.  We have a God who is constant.  God is the one consistent thing in the inconsistency of the emotions of grief.  In Isaiah 46:4 He also ensures us that he will carry us until we are old and gray.  God is constant and will carry us until the day He calls us home or returns.  God has given us the instructions and promises we need to sustain us in this grief journey.  [email protected]

Send a textFor me there is nothing better than a large dining room table filled with family, friends and laughter!  There is something energizing and joyful about those moments.  Well, just imagine what the dining room table in heaven will be like.  In this episode we will do just that.  Let's talk about what our homecoming in heaven will be like and how this visual can give our bereaving hearts a little joy. [email protected]

Send a textWhat is your stance when it comes to keeping it real with God?  Do you have the kind of relationship with Jesus that allows you to be real, vulnerable and honest with your true feelings?  or are you wearing a mask, performing in this play called life and pretending that you always have it all together?  You know God wants us to be real with Him don't you?  There are so many examples in the Bible of people just pouring out their guts to God; the good, the bad and the ugly.  God meets them right where they are and he will do the same for us.  It is in our vulnerability and transparency that we can find a true connection with Jesus and find revelation that will refresh and restore our souls.  It is within this posture that Bereavement and Joy can truly [email protected]

Send a textDo you have a faith that is unwavering?   Could you, like Shadrack, Meshach & Abednego, make the bold statement of "even if he doesn't" we will not serve any other God?  In this episode we will talk about God's Overwhelming love and delight in us.  How he is still the fourth man in the fire today.   We are not alone in our grief.  We can have unwavering faith that is steadfast regardless of our circumstances and regardless of whether or not God intervenes in the way we desire. [email protected]

Send a text1 John 4:16   So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us.Do you believe that God loves you?  I know that can be so hard to come in agreement with in the midst of your pain. God not only loves you but is excited that he gets to love you.In this episode I will share a message that God personally and intimately delivered to me on Valentines of this year.  It is a beautiful message not only for me, but it is for you too.If you want to have your hope restored and experience a love story like no other than this is the episode for you. [email protected]

Send a textWhether we are comfortable talking about it or not, spiritual warfare is real! Just like the tension between Bereavement & Joy, it is the push and pull we experience in the spiritual realm.   In this episode, I will share the spiritual warfare experienced during the loss of my son and the armor used to overcome it.  The battle is real! Are you prepared for [email protected]

Send a textRomans 12:19 " Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."Is the loss of your love one due to a senseless act? Do you Wrestle with feelings of anger and frustration of there being no justice?  Is it hard to accept Romas 12:19 because you feel Jesus has no idea the pain and frustration you are feeling?  In today's podcast I will share the story God took me to in Matthew that totally changed my understanding of what Jesus walked through and how relatable it was to my own story of injustice.  Helping me know that the words God is speaking are coming from a place of heartfelt experience.  No words are more comforting than the words of someone who has walked in our shoes.My desire is that you will find comfort and a renewed hope, just as I did, when you listen to this episode. [email protected]

Send a textJohn 1:5 " The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it"In today's episode we are going to try and articulate what this scripture means and how it applies in a season of bereavement.  I will share how God used this scripture in BJ's celebration of life.  I will also share the significance of my logo and how it ties back into this scriptural truth as well. If you need a little hope, strength and joy in your grief journey this is the episode for you. [email protected]

Send a textJohn 4:24  "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth"   True worship originates from the heart and is aligned with God's truth.  Worship honors God and allows us to connect with him on a deeper level.  Have you ever thought about the fact that worshipping from a posture of pain is uniquely afford to us this side of heaven only?  In this episode we will explore worshipping from a posture of pain and how it can lead us into the dance of bereavement & Joy.   [email protected]

Send a text"And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together"  Colossians 1:17There was something so comforting and desperately needed within this short verse that God poured into my spirit shortly after my son BJ passing.  Maybe it was the fact that I needed someone to hold me together!  In today's episode I will share the unexpected and at the time unwanted ways God proved these words to be true in the midst of my struggle to find my footing and put my life back together. [email protected]@bereavementjoy.org

Send a textDo you believe that God can restore something you have lost?  There are several scriptures that reference restoration in the Bible but what does that look like for us today?  In this episode I will share a story of restoration of a very traumatic event in the loss of our son BJ.  It was the first time I had experienced firsthand the restorative power of God.  God is still in the business of restoration.  [email protected]

Send a textWe do not get a say in how God orchestrates miracles. But what an honor and a privilege to be a part of God's sovereign plan.  In this week's episode I share how BJ was able to be a part of 4 miracles as he transitioned from this temporary world to his eternal home in heaven. [email protected]

Send a textThe bond of a mother and child is unbreakable.  Even through death mothers have a connection that cannot be broken.  This episode reveals the truth of what it means when scripture says that God knitted us together in our mother's womb. [email protected]

Send a textDo you believe that God will never leave you or forsake you even in your darkest days? or could you dare to imagine that he goes before you and prepares the way? In this episode I will share the fingerprints of God that I experienced in the midst of the tragedy of losing my son.  A seemingly small detail that let me know that God had my grandchildren and the whole family in his [email protected]

Send a textWhat do you think of or feel when you hear the words, Eternal Joy?  Do you believe such a thing could even exist?  In today's podcast we are going to dive into grasping the depth of this eternal joy that God has promised. [email protected]

Send a textWhere do we find joy in the midst of great pain and loss? What is Joy? How can I find it?  How can it sustain me? These are the questions we will dive [email protected]

Send a textHow comfortable are you with questioning God?  Have you bought into the lie that God is not to be questioned? What if it is through the questions that God is able to help our believe and grow our [email protected]

Send a textHow comfortable are you with questioning God?  Have you bought into the lie that God is not to be questioned? What if it is through the questions that God is able to help our believe and grow our [email protected]

Send a textHow comfortable are you with questioning God?  Have you bought into the lie that God is not to be questioned? What if it is through the questions that God is able to help our believe and grow our [email protected]

Send a textHow comfortable are you with questioning God?  Have you bought into the lie that God is not to be questioned? What if it is through the questions that God is able to help our believe and grow our [email protected]