Navigating Grief and Faith Through Tragedy

In this heartfelt FamilyLife Today podcast episode, Jackie Gibson, author of You Are Still A Mother, joins Dave and Ann Wilson to discuss the deep emotional pain of experiencing miscarriage and stillbirth, offering both personal insights and spiritual reflections on how to navigate such immense grief. Jackie begins by sharing the heartbreak of losing her second child, Layla, a daughter born still in 2016. As a mother and grandmother, Jackie offers a profound and vulnerable perspective on the loss of a child, especially when you have no baby to hold, and no tangible evidence to show for your motherhood.

Jackie recounts the anticipation and joy that filled her life leading up to the pregnancy with Layla, only to face the devastating news that her daughter had passed away before birth. The emotional rollercoaster began with a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning when Jackie noticed the baby’s movements had slowed, leading to a phone call to the hospital. After being advised to stay home and monitor the baby’s movements, Jackie found out the following day that there was no heartbeat. This moment was the beginning of a grief journey that led to a profound wrestle with God's sovereignty, loss, and questions about His goodness.

Throughout the episode, Jackie opens up about her family's story, including how her husband Johnny, a seminary professor, supported her during this traumatic time. She discusses the significance of her relationship with the Lord during this time, sharing how God’s nearness and the comfort of scripture provided solace amidst the confusion and sorrow. Despite the overwhelming pain of Layla’s death, Jackie emphasizes that she clung to the belief that God was still sovereign and good, even when it felt incomprehensible.

Jackie’s book, You Are Still a Mother, was written from the place of her own journey through grief, with the aim of offering support and hope to other women and families facing the loss of a child. She highlights how many mothers who experience miscarriage or stillbirth often feel invisible, as though their motherhood isn’t valid since they did not bring a baby home. She explains that motherhood is not defined by the child you bring home, but by the love and bond shared, even if the child is not physically present.

The conversation also touches on the importance of community and how the support of friends, family, and the church during moments of grief can be life-changing. Jackie discusses how scripture, such as the verse from Deuteronomy 33:27, was a source of strength for her, helping her through moments of despair and fear. She shares advice on how to be supportive when someone else is grieving, and the importance of offering presence, scripture, and prayer without needing to have all the answers.

The episode ends with a powerful encouragement for listeners who are going through similar grief, reminding them that they are still mothers, even if their children are no longer with them. Jackie invites listeners to embrace their grief with God, acknowledge the pain, and trust that He will guide them through their suffering. The podcast also highlights Jackie’s book as a resource for those who are struggling with miscarriage or stillbirth.

Show Notes and Resources

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