December 29
Another first gone by. Three to go…New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day and the anniversary of Norm’s death.
My Christmas had the expected times of joy with my children and grandchildren, expected times of sorrow and missing Norm. What I did not expect? Moments of absolute emptiness. I felt like the Tin Man, seeing and hearing what happened around me, and yet no emotion attached. Weird.
I’m not sure what to make of that, just thought I’d share it.
I met another widow today, she’s in her second year. This is not for the faint-hearted. It’s not a road anyone would choose. And yet, so many are facing the holidays this year missing a loved one…a parent, a child, a friend, a husband, a wife, a partner, a pet…each one dealing with it the best they can. Remember to lift the ones you know in prayer.
In the olden days, widows wore black for a year, and had restrictions on what was acceptable to do during the year of grieving. We don’t do that anymore. There’s no set time table, no rules of socially acceptable activities, no end date…
Christmas was a blur this year. In three days it will be 2026. I’m starting to consider, now what? One time a mentor told me to “Consider your calling” as I was making a decision for my future.
What am I going to do? Where am I going to serve? What expectations do I have for myself? What expectations from others do I need to consider? What expectations do I need to lay aside?
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:10
Where’s the joy? We can be sorrowful and yet have joy at the same time, amazing how God’s grace surrounds us.
I am thankful for divine appointments, God brings people into our lives who encourage us where we are. Meeting Christa at the Subaru car place today, was one such connection.
I pray for all those who are missing someone special over this holiday, that God will give them grace to have joy in spite of the grief.
I rejoice in the faithfulness of the Lord, who lifts us up when we are down and gives us hope for the future.
Where’s the joy? Everyday, God is faithful. Everyday, God provides.
O Lord, who may abide in Your tent?
Who may dwell on Your holy hill?
He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness,
And speaks truth in his heart.
He does not slander with his tongue,
Nor does evil to his neighbor,
Nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
In whose eyes a reprobate is despised,
But who honors those who fear the Lord;
He swears to his own hurt and does not change;
He does not put out his money at interest,
Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
Psalm 15
TRICIA LATHROP 