In the last few days, I’ve learned that gratitude and grief can coexist in the same heart. God’s grace is indeed sufficient for both. Grace makes space to cherish the memories of our loved one while missing the warmth of their presence.
I’m grateful for and grieving the loss of one of the greatest men I’ve ever known, my father-in-law. He slipped into eternity on Friday. On Saturday we boarded a flight back to the US. I loved him dearly. I treasure the day he called me after my father passed away. He told me that I was his daughter now and he was proud to have me in his life.
”We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope.“
1 Thessalonians 4:13 CSB
We grieve with hope. We grieve with grateful hearts. And we know that death is not the end because eternity awaits.
Gratitude and Grief
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by loss in this holiday season, call out to the God of hope. Accept the peace that only Christ can bring. Grieve, mourn, wail, and make a list of what you loved about them. Ponder each memory. Hold those you love a little tighter. Make sure they all know how much they mean to you. Be kind to those who have lost their grip on hope. Pray for those who are struggling. Love yourself through the struggle to catch your breath.
As the days tick down to Christmas Day, allow your heart to make room for a fresh infilling of His presence. And value each moment, each breath, each hug, because it could be the last.
My father-in-law was a gracious and loving man. How much more so is our Savior, Immanuel, God with us? His grace is sufficient for each of us today, tomorrow, and for eternity. Blessings to you, dear one. I’m so grateful that you stopped by this space!