1:Denial-Facing the Reality of Loss series:Faith in the Face of Grief & Death. “When the Unexpected Happens” John 11:32-37In this first session of the series “Faith in the Face of Grief & Death,” the focus is on Denial, a common response to loss. Using the story of Lazarus’ death in John 11:32-37, the session highlights how even those closest to Jesus experienced denial and struggled to comprehend the reality of loss.Mary approaches Jesus with the same words as her sister Martha, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” This illustrates the feeling of helplessness and disbelief often present when facing death. Jesus, moved by the grief around Him, weeps, showing that it is okay to feel sadness and sorrow in the face of loss. The session explores how grief can cause people to be in denial, struggling to accept the harsh truth of death, and how this is a natural part of the mourning process.The session encourages participants to face the reality of loss with faith, acknowledging that denial is part of the journey, but also that Jesus meets us in our grief, offering comfort and hope even in our hardest moments.