The entire chapter of Genesis 23 is dedicated to Sarah’s death and burial. This highlights her importance in the redemptive story unfolding in Genesis, but it also offers us insight into grief. Even for those of us in Christ – those of us who have the hope that death is not final – death still stings. We are to mourn and weep over our loved ones who have died, much as Abraham grieved over Sarah.

Here, and elsewhere m Scripture, we see that grieving is expected. Abraham was not scolded for his mourning and weeping. Mourning death is proper, because in our tears we communicate the value of the gift God has given us in our loved one.

• How has the Gospel impacted your view of death and grieving?