Be with us in our grief, our mourning, our despair.
Someone we loved is gone from earth,
And it feels so bleak and cold.
Comfort us in the loss and pain,
For it seems so final and real,
Although it’s not the end, we know.
Come quickly when we call.
Aching with confusion and anger,
Not sure which way is up.
Catch our tears in your bottle,
Demonstrating your great care for each one,
As we pour out our hearts to you.
Bid us come to you in our weariness,
Our heavy hearts we lay at your feet,
As you only provide rest and refreshment.
Remind us it’s ok to let the world stop,
Sitting in the sadness and embracing grief,
For the way through is through, not around.
Help us to come back to you, our Shepherd,
Not being distracted by the anger
Or running from the very place where we find hope.
Allow our outbursts and aching hearts,
Knowing that you are the place to find restoration,
And only in you will we feel whole again.
Quench the fire within our hearts
That feels as though it will burn us alive,
Pouring the Life-giving water of your presence out.
Show us resurrection life at work,
Seeing past the seen world to what’s more—
The adventure of eternal Life in knowing you NOW and FOREVER.
I am sent to announce a new season of Yahweh’s grace and a time of God’s recompense on his enemies, to comfort all who are in sorrow, to strengthen those crushed by despair who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful bouquet in the place of ashes, the oil of bliss instead of tears, and the mantle of joyous praise instead of the spirit of heaviness. Because of this, they will be known as Mighty Oaks of Righteousness, planted by Yahweh as a living display of his glory. Isaiah 61:2-3