Greetings Prayer Warriors,
Recently, I met with a friend who fell away from her faith a long time ago. Our conversation wandered into faith and she questioned how God can let bad things happen to good people, yet some evil people are left unscathed. Particularly on her mind was the loss of her young adult son a couple years ago, which is a pain she carries daily. Yet for me, the right words of comfort always seem out of reach…can words alone fill the breach? I cannot fathom the pain of a lost child, but I do know that those with faith can eventually find some peace.
My soul, be at rest in God alone, from whom comes my hope. Psalm 62:6
We all experience loss to different degrees, and each type causes its own unique pain. I think of the one who cares for their spouse with dementia. They experience the emotional loss of the person they fell in love with, but now who no longer knows nor recognizes them. Some have family members who have severed their relationship with them, or vice versa because it was toxic. An irreplaceable loss however, still exists. Others grieve the passing of a parent who died all too soon, feeling untethered for the first time. All of these people struggle to regain their former joy. Luckily, we were given a promise.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
What all these have in common is that they are all part of God’s perfect plan, yet understanding or explaining the “why” can leave us at a loss for words at a time we are trying to bring comfort to another.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways—oracle of the LORD. Isaiah 55:8
Let us pray for those who are feeling the loss of a loved one and an immense void, only heightened by the thought of a holiday gathering with an empty chair.
Lord of mercy and love, while we can’t fathom your ways, give us the desire to accept your Holy Will. When we see someone in pain, give us the words, the glance, the touch, to comfort them. Give those who mourn the faith to trust in your love and compassion for them, that they may turn toward you rather than run away from you. May your healing graces flow even more abundantly this time of year, reigniting joy and bringing about a renewal of faith in You. Dearest Savior, save them with your love!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Spread some joy and compassion to someone who is struggling. Pass it on!
