Sitting Shiva

 

Something interesting happened yesterday. I learned that my new friend Gail's husband had passed away, and we were invited to "sit shiva" with her. Although I've heard of this Jewish custom, it was my first experience. Wanting to respect the tradition, I looked it up online to avoid any missteps.

What is Sitting Shiva? 

Genesis 50:10

When they reached the threshing floor of Atad, near the Jordan, they lamented loudly and bitterly; and there Joseph observed a seven-day period of mourning for his father.

Job 2:11-13 

When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him.  When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads.  Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.

Visiting a mourner typically involves supporting them for seven days through conversation, meals, prayers, and reciting the Mourner's Kaddish. A common expression of sympathy is, "I'm sorry for your loss." Nothing more needs to be said at this time.  During my visit, we washed our hands, sat on low, uncomfortable stools, and all mirrors were covered. Although I didn’t inquire about her husband’s passing, it was evident he had been ill. We read prayers together for about 30-40 minutes, and I signed up to bring her a meal on Christmas Eve.

We had also picked up Susan, another Temple member in her 70s using a walker, who lived nearby. She surprised me when she firmly stated, 

"I won't accept Jesus - never, never, never." 

I had to chuckle and reassure her, 

"My friendship with you is unconditional." 

I don't think she expected that response from me. She's encountered in the past some rude christians and I don't want to be like that.   After our conversation, she invited me in and she gave me some chocolates to take home.  I’m happy to say I made another new friend. When Gail wasn't able to take her to the temple, she asked if I could be her backup. Of course - we're going anyway, and she lives nearby. 

So, last evening took a turn I never expected! What started as a typical night transformed into something extraordinary. After I talked on the phone with Gail, we changed clothes, laced up our shoes, then out the door for a quick hamburger meal. Then went from there to pick up Susan. 

I am deeply grateful to God for the privilege to serve His lost sheep. 

Until Next Time, 

Debby