Good morning…
On the morning when another family in our community will host a memorial service for a beloved husband, father, friend, I return to the illusive promise eluded to in yesterday’s post. On this one-of-a-kind day, how can the joy of the Lord be our strength? And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t stay dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10, NLT).
For those who are wondering if they should attend the 2:00 pm funeral, “Go.” For those who understand we are bolstered by bonding together, “Celebrate a loving life well-lived, sharing rich gifts with others who grieve.” For those who do not know what to say or how to respond, wondering if ‘just being there’ is enough, “Tenderly share comfort with loved ones who have nothing prepared.”
On this sacred day, one that will never come again, quietly we inch open our hearts, releasing our dejected sadness, gradually pouring out every emotion from our deep ocean, with choice friends, close family, and our God who cares. Might the strengthening joy of our Lord be found in our shared drops?
God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him (1 Peter 5:7, CEV).
…Sue…
P.S. To prayerfully ponder the waves of feelings flowing through this family and these friends today, please revisit our recent post One Special Dinner.
