My mother passed away last weekend, and her funeral is tomorrow in Houston. The grief of not being able to attend her services (I'm in Indiana, the funeral is in my hometown, Houston, TX) has palpable. Today, however, I opened an email devotional and read this beautiful prayer:
Dear God, You know my heart and my heartaches. You have showered me with blessings and carried me through the valley of pain and sadness. Thank you for the godly influence of special people in my life. Thank you for those who pray for and encourage me. I even thank you for the hard times and trials I have been through, for they have strengthened my faith. I praise you for giving me a spirit of hope, love, and acceptance, rather than allowing me to become angry, bitter, and downcast. I praise you God, from whom all blessings flow. May I, in return, be a blessing to you. In Jesus' name, amen. (from TGIF, Os Hillman, www.church growth.org)
Seemed to fit perfectly with my thoughts today. Love, Claudia
