Sometimes it's hard to be thankful..

Sometimes it's hard to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day when we have to celebrate it missing Josh. We are un-thankful that he isn't able to be with us today, but so very thankful we were able to have him in our lives for 25 years. We are grateful for the peace in our hearts knowing that we will see him again one day. We love and miss you dearly Josh.

Dear God,

There is an empty chair at our table,

an ache in our hearts

and tears on our faces.

We may try to shield one another

from the grief we bear

but we cannot hide it from you.

Hold tight our dear Josh

whose presence we miss 

in these homecoming days.

Open our eyes and our hearts

to the healing and warmth

of the light of your presence.

Assure us, Lord, that those we miss

have a place at your table

and a home in your heart

as well as in ours. 

Open our hearts to joyful memories 

of the love we shared

with those who have gone before us.

Help us tell the stories

that make the past present

and bring us close to those we miss.

Teach us to lean on each other

and on you, Lord,

for the strength we need 

to walk through difficult times. 

Give us quiet moments

with you, with our thoughts,

with our memories and prayers.

Be with us, Lord,

and hold us in your arms

even as you hold those whom we miss.

This is the day you have made, Lord:

help us to rejoice in it

and in the promise of your peace.

Amen.

(Links to prayers and reflections for the month of November)