January 17

I usually try to remain pretty upbeat, but I seem to be attending a lot of funerals lately.  It is hard to be optimistic in the cold and dark of winter, standing in the midst of those mourning a loved one.

Gracious God, be with all those who mourn this day.  Help us to know that you welcome your children into your presence and to find comfort in that knowledge.  Grant us comfort and peace and the strength to live from day to day so that we can experience joy in living.  In the name of him who knows our grief, Jesus Christ, Amen.