The Next Step

So, now I pose that question to others who are grieving. It opens the door and allows conversation to flow and sometimes tears too. I have held other women in my arms, just embarking on their journey from mourning to joy. I know and feel their pain.

Recently a woman from my church buried her mom one Saturday and the very next week her husband died. They had only been married one year! I could not even begin to wrap my arms around her loss. How devastated she must feel. Waves of compassion flooded my mind for her. I prayed for her every time I thought of her, which seemed every moment for the first few days.

Since my husband’s death, I had carved out a very comfortable spot for myself. Funerals were tough for me. So I gave myself permission not to attend them. I would breeze into the visitation, sign the visitor’s register, express my condolences, kiss and hug the family, and quietly leave. This worked well for a long time…until this time.

I was sitting out in the back yard the morning of my friend’s husband’s visitation and funeral. Content with my plan, dress, go, sign, kiss, hug and leave. I was praying and praising God for the beauty of the day. I noticed how the soft breeze moved the taller blades of grass and how the early dew glistened in the suns light. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Content and peace were my breath sounds. Then, ever so quietly, I heard… “you need to go to this funeral. WHAT?” I said out loud!

I have walked with God long enough to know His voice. So I listened. This is your next step He said… your next step.

I was obedient. I dressed and participated in a joyous celebration of a man who truly loved the Lord and was never ashamed to literally “sing” God’s praises whenever and wherever he could. There were moments that were really tough. But I knew that God wanted me to experience the moment and to embrace His taking me the next step.

Prayer: Lord, God you always know the next step. It is only my responsibility to be obedient and take the next step. Thank you Lord for your steadfast attention to me, for your guidance and your love toward me. I am stronger because I took the next step.
In Jesus name,
Amen