Holidays: Day 1

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear or be in dread . . . for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6 RSV

Thought

You may be among the many people who dread the holidays because of the unavoidable pressure to do, buy, and experience all that is urged upon you during the season. The nature of grief is that it intensifies your experience of occasions that painfully remind you of your loss. Fear and dread may creep into your heart as you begin to imagine what the holiday season will be like. You may ask, “How can there be celebration without the one I love?”

Prayer

God, I know that you go with me into the uncharted territory of holiday celebration without my loved one. I pray that you will quiet the fear and dread of grief that threaten my heart. Amen.

Assurance

There will be other holidays.