How to Send Sympathy When People Experience a Death of a Loved One

Life is full of many beautiful moments, but there are also times when people experience extremely difficult hardships. No one is immune to these circumstances because we are all human and have emotions. It’s also very difficult to see others close to us go through pain and suffering. Sometimes it can be situations such as losing a loved one or having a family member diagnosed with a terminal disease. Even so, you need to show compassion and be the greatest support system for those who are in need. Sending your condolences is very important because as believers, you need to show the light and love of Christ to them.

Here are some ideas on how to send sympathy when people are hurting. Before we begin, you want to be mindful of their situation because people tend to grieve in different ways, some prefer seclusion and others prefer to be surrounded by other people. You want to be respectful and sensitive to their specific case.

1.   Offer Your Condolences

The first thing you can do for someone who is going through a difficult time is to send your condolence and express your sympathy for their situation. If they have lost a loved one, it’s best to send them a brief text message (or instant message) first. The reason is that some people may still processing the loss and are emotionally exhausted. They may not want to directly speak to others, but you can always check-in and ask to call them if they are available to talk.

Some examples of offering your condolences can be:

• “I am so sorry for your loss; I will be praying for you.”
• “My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time”
• “Thinking of you on this day. Please do not hesitate and let me know if you need anything.”
• “Praying for you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort”

You can also include a short Bible verse. These messages do not need to be long. Just something short letting them know you are thinking of them. They will appreciate that you took the time to reach out.

2.   Sending Flowers

Another way to express your sympathy is by sending them flowers. Flowers show an expression of love and comfort. It brings beauty to the environment and releases an enriching aroma. They will be appreciative with any flowers you send them.

3.   Providing a Meal

Many times, in hard situations people don’t have the motivation to do much of anything, even cook. So, it would be thoughtful to provide a meal that they might enjoy. Ask them what foods they prefer and ensure you stay away from foods they may be allergic to. If you decide to order food for them, let them know so they can be home when it arrives.

If you cannot order or cook a meal, you can buy them a gift card to their favorite places to eat. You can either drop it off, send it to their home address or even sometime email it to them. Whatever you decide to do, they will be grateful for your kind gesture.

4.   Writing a Card or Letter

Another way to send sympathy is to write them a letter or send them a nice card in the mail (or an E-card too). Taking the time to write your genuine thoughts can mean so much more to people than anything else. In your letter or card send your sympathy, but also write words of encouragement to uplift them (include scripture if you can).

Death and difficult situations can be overwhelming and stir many sad emotions, but it is important for people to know that there are people who love them and want to be there for them in their time of need. Don’t be afraid to share thoughts from your heart, they need to hear them too.

5.   Visiting in Person

Before you decide to visit anyone, you may need to reach out to them and ask them if they desire company. You do not want to show up unannounced in case they are not ready to see anyone. If they agree, go, and visit them. Try not to show up empty-handed but bring something small if you can, such as flowers or a caring gift.

Seeing a familiar face brings joy to those going through a hard time. They may desire to converse and express what they are going through. They may also want to talk about the loss so be receptive to listen and allow them to share their pain with you. Although they will be glad you came to visit, keep in mind they may just want to sit with you in silence and that is okay. Before you leave, pray for them in person. Everyone needs people to uplift and help them through hardships.

6.   Share a Memory of the Loss (or Person who Passed)

If they lost a loved one and you knew them, sharing a good memory of them will bring comfort to the people who are alive and are mourning them. The memory takes them back to the good things that their deceased loved one accomplished in their lifetime.

If they are going through a very difficult time, share a good memory you may have with that person. It will bring a smile to their face, and they will think about those good memories in their personal lives.

No matter what people are going through, be kind, compassionate, and empathetic to their situation. Remind them that the Word is their strength, Jesus said, ‘“Come to me, all 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.

When people are in pain and they are hurting, offer them sympathy. You see when you make an effort to do any of these, they will know you care about them which will bring them comfort.