Seasons Grieving

Even in the most festive and joyous month of the year, there are people who don't feel much like celebrating. I just got word that one of our former pastors went to be with Jesus last night after a long illness. Earlier today I read a post on FB from a daughter who was wishing happy birthday to her dad who is in heaven. Years ago I knew a widow who spent every Christmas Day alone, in homage to her beloved husband who lost his battle with Lou Gehrig's disease on Christmas Day.

In the midst of all the hubbub leading up to Christmas, it is easy to forget that each day there are families whose lives are disrupted by a death, whether it was expected or not. Each holiday someone is experiencing a "first" - the "first Christmas" or "first Easter" or "first Fourth of July" without a loved one.

As I thought about my friend (the pastor's wife who is now a widow) I realized I need to pray even more for her now as she heads into the holiday season with such fresh grief. It is never easy to say goodbye to someone you love, but it is especially difficult at this time when there is so much focus on families being together for Christmas.

I just felt tonight that I would like to encourage us all to look around our circles of friends and acquaintances, being sensitive to those who are especially missing a loved one this year. Just a touch or a word or a note could go a long way toward easing their burden right now.

Have a blessed night.