The following small group discussion is intended for those who are coping with grief. I have listed a few possible song choices that could be utilized in this discussion but it is the hope that those involved in the group will come up with suggested songs of their own that speak to them on some level. It is also the hope of this discussion that those involved will allow this theological process to engage them on a deeper level. This discussion could be parlayed in to a variety of expressions such as art: theater, collage work, painting, or photography or even into social media: powerpoint presentation, online journal, youtube video, blog, or website. This discussion is based off of a class project prepared by Mary Hess that is based on The Art of Theological Reflection by Patricia O’Connell Killen and John DeBeer.

The story of Job is the story of someone facing extreme hardship. The bible is full of people who face hardship usually as a result of unfaithfulness. However, Job’s story is a test. This story is an opportunity for a person to explore one’s reactions and what that tells you about your own faith. Within the context of this story, you can explore fairness, grief, reconciliation, fear, good and evil and a whole host of other themes depending on how deep you want to dig. The following study is meant to start you on that exploration. You may decide at another time to dive deeper into the book to the rich conversations between Job, his friends and God. May the spirit bless you in your study.