Preparation
Sometimes our hearts nearly burst with pure gratitude and joy. Sometimes loss washes over us and we feel as if we might drown in the sorrow. Often, however, these emotions are intermingled. We grieve the loss of property in a tornado, but are grateful for our lives being saved. We are angry over the theft of our precious belongings, but are grateful we weren't home. Adapt this blessing to meet your needs. Option 1 focuses on loss, option 2 on gratitude. Do one or both of the options. Fill a blessing cup.
Welcome
For everything there is a season,
and a time for every matter under heaven.
Welcome to this time for (grieving loss and/or giving thanks).
Prayer
God of faith, hope, and love, this prayer rises before you from hearts filled with (loss and/or gratitude). Be present during this time. Give us all we need for the day.
In Jesus' name we pray. Amen
Bible Text
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
| Reflection | |
|
Option 1: Share or write in a journal, naming those things that have been lost: tangible things (home, possessions...), intangible qualities (trust, serenity...), and beliefs (God will always protect me, people are generally good, this person is trustworthy...). Then finish these sentences: I am most angry about... I am most sad about... If only I had... |
Option 2: Share or write in a journal, naming all you are grateful for. Then finish these sentences: I am grateful for ___ because... Before this happened, I was most worried about... One thing I hope for now is... |
| Ritual Action | |
|
Option 1: Pass the blessing cup, saying, I trust in you, God, to see me through this loss. |
Option 2: Pass the blessing cup, saying, Thank you, God, for... |
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