As we approach the Christmas season, it hurts to remember and we'd rather not think about the overwhelming sadness of the losses and tragedies of the past year, within our own community. What can we say or do that would ever be enough to comfort and ease the pain of those who are grieving and suffering? They will feel a heightened awareness of their loss and pain during this season. Nothing could ever be enough except the healing and peace from the One who has each of our names inscribed in the palm of His hand, but let us do what we are able.
Heavenly and merciful Father, Impress upon our hearts to love our neighbors and not look away. Help us remember not to forget them; not only in this season of celebrating the birth of our Savior, but always. Let us do it for Your glory. In the tender and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
Isaiah 61:1-3 (NIV)
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
Anonymous
Such a mother's heart.
ReplyDeleteHow like God to remind us that we mustn't avoid the uncomfortable but reach out and comfort as we have been comforted.
Thank you for the beautiful reminder of what the season is really about and where are hearts should be.
May we encircle those that have lost with our love and prayers and may our expression of His love for them during this time and season bring new hope just as Jesus' birth brought hope to the world.
God bless you!