The hearse pulls up to the spot where the family will proceed to the grave site. When the funeral director opens the back of the hearse, he instructs the pallbearers to gather around to take the casket out. But just before that happens, he asks if the pallbearers want to use the cart provided by the cemetery or if they want to carry it.
The casket is sometimes very heavy even with six to eight people carrying it, so the cart is a welcome help.
But much of the time, they’d rather carry the casket, no matter the weight nor the distance to the grave.
There’s something symbolic about the weight of the casket and the walk to the grave. The burden of grief is powerful. Our hearts are heavy because of the loss of a loved one. Our emotions are heavy because this trip to the grave is the final good-bye for some.
The walk we take the rest of our lives, grieving heavily or lightly, is long. Every step we take without our loved ones is a reminder of the value of life.
Grief, as heavy as it is, brings. joy in memories.
Really.
Grief happens to those who have loved. Even though we are reminded of our love, the pain of loss is heavier than the casket and longer than the walk to the grave site.
But there is still hope. Jesus tells us why:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Handling Grief 