Quiet Contemplation - Day 35

Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.

Yesterday I wrote from my heart with special thoughts for those who are grieving the loss of loved ones or dear friends. Today my thoughts are more about letting go and moving forward. Now to be clear, I have no medical or professional background in this area, so if you are personally under care of professional or medical guidance for any reason—remember, I “Write From My Heart” and these are just my thoughts; not professional counsel.

            Having said that, what occurs to me first is that dwelling in the past hinders a clear vision of the present and becomes a roadblock for the future. It is called “the past” for a reason—it is behind us. What we must remind ourselves, is that moving forward does NOT mean your love for your loved one will diminish in any way, shape, or form! Their memory is and always will be precious to you. There is no shame in moving forward.

           

Here are some things to try:

·       Rather than focusing on loss, choose to focus on life.

·       Rather than clinging to the past, choose to observe the present blessings all around you.

·    Rather than allowing grief to consume you, choose to praise God for the time, however brief you shared.

And something else that may help in the moment when memories begin to overwhelm is to stop, take a deep breath, and find some word, song, or Bible verse of praise to God for his blessings. Blessings are all around you and you can find them when you look. If you are unable to process your thoughts in the moment, sing the Doxology (your preferred format is fine):

Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below:

Praise him above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.

(Thomas Ken, 1637-1711)

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Moment by moment, day by day, we rely on your strength to overcome grief and loss. But you are there ready to help us move forward in life. Help us to focus on you and the work you have for us to do for your glory and name sake.

            In Christ’s name, Amen

Respectfully written and submitted by

Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for the blessed hope of Christ’s return.