Why do Christians grieve so when a loved one dies? Do they grieve as much as an atheist? They'll be reunited with them in paradise so why so sad?

Surely it would just be the sadness of a loved one moving away or something right?

I don't mean this antagonistically and i apologize if this is insensitive. I'm just curious because it seems given the worldview that a Christian shouldn't be terribly upset when a family member dies.

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dontbekoi · 36-40, F

I don't necessarily think they are crying for their lost ones, I think they are crying because the passage of time is scary. Change is scary. Just like children, adults feel more confident and secure when their daily activities are predictable and familiar. When those familiar people die it can make us feel insecure and vulnerable.

Pikachu

@dontbekoi

I'm not sure that's the reason.
Like you might get overwhelmed and cry when you go to university away from home for the first time because that's a huge change from the predictable and familiar...but you don't grieve it as a loss.

dontbekoi · 36-40, F

@Pikachu Well, that has me thinking. I think it is a temporary form of grief - until you speak with them on the phone or see them ? - Then the grieving stops. If you never see them again, it would be a form of grief (similar to Holocaust survivors)

Grief - Intense sorrow
Loss - The feeling of grief

Pikachu

@dontbekoi

If you never see them again

Well that's the thing, isn't it?
If you're a Christian then you believe that will see them again.

dontbekoi · 36-40, F

@Pikachu

Very true but that may be in 20 + years. I'm gonna miss that person's presence in my life.

In the meantime, there are going to be tears. Sorry Jesus 😉