Thank you for your letter. One reason I wanted to reprint it now is because I know the holiday season is often especially hard for people like you. Perhaps your letter will encourage some of our readers to reach out to others who are lonely or hurting during this Christmas season. After all, this is what God did for us on that first Christmas.

Almost nothing in life is harder than the death of a dearly loved spouse—and I want you to know that God understands your hurt and wants to help you. Jesus promised, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). I hope you will take time each day to thank Him for the years He gave you and your wife.

Thank Him also that now she is safe in heaven, beyond all the pain and cares of this life. The Bible says that in heaven “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

Let me encourage you also, however, to reach out to others who are lonely and need your encouragement. All around you are people who have gone through similar experiences—in your church, your neighborhood, your family. Ask God to use you to share His love with them.