Tag Archives: grief

2014

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Truth is I am glad to see 2013 end. What a year. There was much stress and anguish and grief yet I was able to get through it with the great comfort of knowing I was loved and supported by God. I felt this in the beautiful relationships I share. We tend to think of the difficult times and overlook those blessings that come to us in the midst of the trials. I am reminded of the joy of seeing my husband come home from work, of talking in the late evening with my son, of keeping up with my daughter by text and phone and sometimes Skype. I have good friends. There is music, worship, chats, puzzle making, enjoying the colors and shapes which surround us. I had the joy of being a prayer guide and of working with lovely people in spiritual direction. Even sitting in the hospital I was able to be grateful for medical technology and for people who care for the sick. So I am thankful that the challenges of 2013 are behind us and look forward to what might be in store for us in the new year. I pray that I will remain open to the grace and blessing we are given in abundance.

LOSS

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This last month was a time of loss. Beginning April 2 our congregation has mourned the loss and celebrated the lives of 4 members and the brother of one of our pastors. It was particularly hard to see the pain in those left behind.  April 3 was the one year anniversary of my own mother’s passing. I also have to say goodbye to friends moving away. The burden is heavy and  I recall the Scripture about the yoke.

‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me;
for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’      Matt 11:28-30

yokeThe yoke ties us to Christ so that we are no longer working alone. The burden is lightened because we have help from one who understands. So it is with grief, we are not alone, our strength is increased by uniting with the Lord and our faith won’t let us fall, will keep us close, will help us carry the burden until the work is done.

So even as I feel the heaviness of sadness and loss, I feel the load lightened because I am not alone, I feel God’s presence holding me up, keeping me moving, and sharing my pain.