New Zealand is in mourning after the devastating loss of life at the Pike River mine. It is the largest death toll in a single event for this country since an Air New Zealand jet crashed on Mt Erebus in the Antarctic in 1979. The name Pike River will be added to other names that that have deep resonances in New Zealands history: Erebus, Strongman, Brunner, Wahine, Tangiwai, Ballantynes, Napier, Gallipoli, Tarawera, Orpheus. There are others that could be added.
At this time, and at times like these, words seem inadequate. Of course they are inadequate. An embrace, a pat on the shoulder, a plate of baking left at the front door, taking time off work to be present at funerals and memorials. These all speak deeper than words at such times.
Yet, it must also be said that too much silence hangs like a pall over such loss. Words, even though inadequate, will be needed.
Simple words, like I'm here for you. Anything you want, just ask. Is there anything I can do for you? I just want you to know that we care. My condolences. These simple, personal words, will be said time and again on the West Coast, as a community opens its wounded heart to care for the bereaved.
There will be other words in the future. Answers to questions: How could this have happened? What can we learn from this disaster, to ensure it never happens again? Who is responsible? It is hoped that these will be dealt with by an inquiry called by the Government.
There will be other questions as to the future of the Pike River mine and the employment prospects of its workers.
But when loss is so raw, words are needed that have stood the test of time. Words which have been read out, prayed over, pondered and remembered over the centuries. The great words of sacred Scripture.
These words remind us of the fragility of human life. Psalm 103:15-16: As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.
But they also remind us that, with death, our lives are changed, not ended.
As Jesus said in John 14:2, There are many rooms in my fathers house; if there were not, I would have told you. I am going now to prepare a place for you, and after I have gone and prepared a place, I shall return to take you with me; so that where I am, you may be too.
Who is this Jesus, who can make such a promise? I am the Resurrection and the life, the Lord tells us in John 11:25.
Great and comforting though the words of Scripture are at a time like this, they will not suffice on their own. When the Lord says in the Beatitudes, Blessed are they that mourn, they shall be comforted, it is a call to all of us to play our part, no matter how small, in providing that comfort.
There will be empty seats at many a Christmas dinner on the coast. Festive cheer will be dimmed. Support will be needed for many months, if not years.
Its time to love our neighbour, in his or her loss.