Sorrow as Companion

Scripture

“Then Jesus told them, ‘You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” (John 12:35-36 NIVUK)

Sorrow as Companion

“How was your week?”, is a common conversation starter. It is a good question to ask ourselves occasionally to keep in touch with the emotional and spiritual currents that shape the day we are facing now.

Last week was a little different for me. Along with the normal friends and family conversations there was a current of sorrow. A group of us processed the sudden loss of a good friend. There was a funeral for another person of my vintage. A good friend dropped by the same day and we explored his grief after the loss of his younger, beloved spouse.

I was very conscious of the many friends I have lost over the past 20 years, their memory and even presence still part of my journey. Loss is painful. It is also a doorway to the presence of the God who suffers with us. As we go down into the darkness – we discover the light. It doesn’t take away the pain of loss but opens some hopeful paths for fruitful life.

A Prayer for Today

Loving Father, thank you for the shared journey with friends and family, and with you. You remind me that life is a gift - why I have this day is a wonderful mystery. Let me walk in the light while I still have the chance. Let me continue on the journey of being a child of your light  …. for Jesus’ sake