April 27, 2025

Marta Klein - Grief and Lament

Marta Klein is one of our global partners with the Evangelical Covenant Church to the Democratic Republic of Congo. She was with us on Sunday, April 27, to share about her ministry and her journey through grief.

Icebreaker
What is one thing that recently brought you unexpected joy, even during a challenging time?

Study Questions

1. Read Matthew 5:4 and Psalm 23:4. How do these verses speak to God's presence and comfort during seasons of grief?
2. Marta said that grief is the deep emotion we feel, and lament is the expression of that emotion. Why do you think expressing our grief openly (lamenting) is important for healing?
3. In Marta's experience in Congo, grief is expressed immediately and openly through wailing and community support. How does this contrast with how grief is often handled in American culture?
4. Marta shared that grief and healing are not linear — sometimes we cycle through anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance multiple times. Why do you think it’s important to give ourselves (and others) grace during the grieving process?
5. Read 2 Corinthians 4:8–10 and Philippians 4:4–7. How do these passages encourage us to find hope even while we are still grieving?

Application Questions

1. Marta mentioned the importance of naming and recognizing different types of loss (permanent loss, living loss, layered loss). What types of loss have you experienced recently that you might need to name before God?
2. Reflecting on the four steps of lament (Turn to God, Talk to God, Ask for Help, Trust God), which step is the easiest for you? Which is the hardest right now?
3. How could you create more space in your life to honestly express your grief to God, either personally or in community with others?
4. What is one practical way you can offer support to someone you know who is grieving — not trying to "fix" them, but simply being present?

Prayer
Spend time praying for each other, asking God to meet each person in whatever grief, loss, or struggles they are facing. Thank God that He sees, hears, and walks with us through every valley.