Today’s Reflection
Like people routinely do, we sat in the same pew almost every Sunday morning. . . . You always reached out and held my hand at the beginning of every prayer. It was a way we shared our faith, quietly . . . privately.
Now that you are gone, I have moved to another pew so I can sit between dear friends who understand when my eyes suddenly flood with tears. Now I bow my head and fold my hands in my lap. I take comfort in my church family who love me well in your absence. I feel their encouragement and grace as the presence of God. Still, I miss the warmth of my hand in yours.
—Missy Buchanan, Feeling Your Way Through Grief: A Companion for Life After Loss (Upper Room Books, 2024)
Today’s Question
How might you encourage a friend who is grieving a loss? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
—Romans 8:38-39 (NRSVUE)
Prayer for the Week
O God, let me feel your presence in the darkness of my grief. Be with me in the silence; be with me when I weep; be with me as I find a way forward. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
“It was a blessing to personally witness the love between Missy and her beloved husband Barry,” reflects Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts. “The bond they experienced is apparent in Missy’s latest book and is a safe place for readers to explore their deepest emotions.” Tune into Good Morning America today, August 1, 2024, to hear more from Missy Buchanan, author of this week’s featured book, Feeling Your Way Through Grief. Receive 20% off and free shipping when you order your copy today.
Lectionary Readings
- 2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a
- Psalm 51:1-12
- Ephesians 4:1-16
- John 6:24-35
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
2 Comments
How might you encourage a friend who is grieving a loss? Be fully present when grief is deepest.
Words will not suffice. I have felt this support and while it has been a very long time since then, that support is well remembered.
In my own long ago grief I turned to God and that was a great help.
Yes, God’s love is with us always. It is constant. Thank You, Lord.
A new day, a new month, bright sunshine with wnd gusts all day.
I send cards to friends who are in grief. I also call them to check in with them and I take them to tea or lunch. The whole point is to help them know that they are not alone and that there is still someone who loves them.
Add Comment