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Posts Tagged ‘grief’

hallelujah-in-hand

Christmas is a few days away, but many may not feel like celebrating this year.  When a family member has died and Christmas is just around the corner, singing and rejoicing can easily feel out of place.

It is natural to feel a deep and prolonged sense of sadness when a loved one has died.  It is also easy for Christmastime to be an emotional roller coaster due to the many memories a family had with their loved one.  If a person is experiencing sadness, crying frequently, or feeling uncomfortable around others, attending a Christmas service may not seem like the right answer.

I encourage you to make time and space for God even in your sorrow.  If it is listening to a favorite Christmas hymn, lighting an advent candle, reading Scripture, or offering prayer share time with God this Christmas. This time can be in a public setting with other believers or privately at home.  Even a cold and broken hallelujah is an offering of love and devotion that God will hear.

In time, your song will change. The healing heart of God is there to strengthen and guide you through the difficulties of today.  Make time to connect with our Heavenly Father.  The peace of God is always there to restore, heal, and provide.

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It is time to make a difference in your community.  It is time to stand with those who are suffering.

September is suicide prevention month.  Take time to find, list, and highlight organizations that can save a life.  Find out what resources are available in your community and share those resources.  No matter where you live, your community has access to a local, state, or national group that helps people at-risk of suicide.

Possible organizations include:  crisis centers, hospitals, churches, charities, call centers, veteran groups, along with schools and universities.  It is also important to know the warning signs and symptoms of people at risk.  Take time to educate yourself, take a class, or attend a survivors of suicide support group.

Suicide is a tremendous problem in our communities and our society.  It hurts spouses, children, parents, extended families, friends, and co-workers.  When it is all said and done, suicide impacts everyone.  Take action this September.  Make a difference in your community.  If you find a meaningful website, share it with your friends.  If you attend an ASIST class, tell people how to intervene.   Your actions and words of encouragement could help to save a life.

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