This week a dear friend has been through hell.
His hell is one of those things that could happen to any one of us, unexpectedly, at any time. His wife suffered a brain aneurysm and is in stable but critical condition.
I can not imagine how frightening this must be.
As I reflect on his experience, I pray for his peace, for his wife’s healing, for strength for their family, for grace and guidance from the Holy Spirit in those who care for her. I pray that God’s presence is known and felt in the darkest moments, and that God grant this family consolation and relief.
This past week I have been called again and again to pray with this scripture passage, and I did not understand why. Now, I think I do.
Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
When you pass through the waters I will be with you;
and through the rivers; they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
For I am the Lord your God
the holy one of Israel, your Savior.-Isaiah 43:1-3
Today, I am painfully, consciously aware of those who have loved ones who are ill, not just this friend, but all of my friends who are struggling with illness, cancer, death of a loved one, loss. I pray for all of them this day. I invite you to do the same.
the grace in life 