Monday, January 4, 2016

Dear God,

You open us up to the suffering of others, sometimes family or friends, but sometimes complete strangers.  You prick our hearts and we feel pain, sorrow, and grief.  You cause us to feel compassion and make us want to reach out and pray.  This strange and wonderful thing is heaven's love.

Among hundreds who gathered with the families of four boys who were tragically killed in an auto accident last week, we listened to a member of each family who spoke about their lost child, their friendships, their sorrow, their appreciation, and their joy for all the many acts of love given them.  Their pastor then prayed.  Then the next stepped up.  For an hour we were a grieving, praying, and singing community.  As we sang "Amazing Grace" we lifted our voices to you declaring our faith and trust in you but also praying for help to face the days, weeks, and months ahead.

How wonderful you are to touch our lives, O God.  How beautiful it is to offer love to one another and for a moment in time to stand in solidarity with hurting people.  How merciful you are to create love for us to share together.

Almighty God,
be the power
of love
and comfort
to all
those who
are grieving
not only
in our community
but around
the world.
Touch each one
with your love.
Cause us
to love
one another deeply.

Love always, Andrea