
Over the past several years, many people throughout the Nation of Bermuda have asked the same heartfelt question: “Why are there so many deaths?” It seems that scarcely a week passes without hearing of another family saying goodbye to a loved one. Homes are grieving. Churches are comforting the brokenhearted. Communities are gathering to support one another through funeral services, memorials, and moments of remembrance.
The reality is that death has touched nearly every family in some way. Some have lost parents, spouses, children, siblings, relatives, friends, neighbours, classmates, or colleagues. Others are carrying multiple losses within a short period, leaving little opportunity for healing before another season of grief begins.
There is no single answer that explains why Bermuda has experienced so much loss. Some deaths result from illness, others from age, accidents, violence, mental health struggles, or unexpected circumstances. These realities remind us that we live in a fallen world where suffering and death affect every nation.
The Scriptures teach us that death entered the world because of sin.
Romans 5:12 (KJV): “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
Although death is universal, every life is precious to God. Every person who has passed away leaves behind people who loved them. Behind every obituary is a family learning to live with an empty chair. Behind every funeral is a lifetime of memories that cannot be replaced.
For many Bermudians, grief has become a shared national experience. Yet grief should never be viewed as weakness. Grief is the natural response to love. We grieve because someone mattered. We grieve because relationships leave lasting impressions upon our hearts.
Even our Lord Jesus Christ experienced grief.
John 11:35 (KJV): “Jesus wept.”
If the Son of God wept at the death of His friend Lazarus, then we should never feel ashamed of our own tears. Tears are not evidence of a lack of faith. They are often evidence of deep love.
To everyone in Bermuda who is grieving today, know that your feelings are valid. Healing is not something that happens overnight. There is no timetable for mourning. Some days will be easier than others. Some memories will bring tears, while others will bring smiles. Both are part of the journey.
God does not ask you to carry your grief alone.
Psalm 34:18 (KJV): “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
The Lord draws near to those whose hearts have been broken. He sees every tear, hears every prayer, and understands every question that words cannot express.
During this season, let us also remember our responsibility toward one another. Check on those who have recently experienced loss. Visit the elderly. Encourage those who live alone. Pray with grieving families. Offer practical help where needed. Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply being present.
Galatians 6:2 (KJV): “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
If you are grieving today, do not isolate yourself. Allow trusted family members, pastors, chaplains, spiritual advisers, counsellors, and faithful friends to walk beside you. Healing often begins when we permit others to help carry what feels too heavy to bear alone.
Most importantly, hold fast to the hope found in Jesus Christ. For those who have placed their faith in Him, death is not the end of the story. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, Christ conquered the grave and gave the promise of eternal life.
John 11:25–26 (KJV): “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”
To the people of Bermuda, be gentle with yourselves and with one another. Give people permission to grieve. Give them space to remember. Give them the gift of your presence. Let compassion replace judgement, and let love overcome loneliness.
Though our nation has experienced many tears, we have also witnessed remarkable resilience, faith, and unity. We have stood together through storms before, and by God’s grace, we will continue to stand together now.
May the Lord comfort every grieving family, strengthen every weary heart, and fill Bermuda with His peace.
Psalm 46:1 (KJV): “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Bermuda, it is okay to grieve. It is okay to cry. It is okay to remember. But do not lose hope, for the God of all comfort is walking with you, and His love remains steadfast through every season of loss.
Selah Moment with Dr. Althea
