A Day-by-day devotional

January 14, 2023

Joy in the Morning

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: Genesis 11-16

Scripture of the Day: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5

When I was eight, I had my first dog. Her name was Maya. Maya was a typical Philippine dog. She doesn’t have a special breed. I loved Maya. I lost her when I was 14 and it bled my heart. Later on, I had another dog named Knuffeltje. He was a long-haired Dachshund. He was a sweet dog. He lived for 12 years and passed on. His passing was also painful. I would still remember him especially when I see other dogs looking like him.

Losing someone we love is heartbreaking. But that is how life operates. We cannot hold on to those that are dear to us forever. However, the fact of life is, we do not only lose someone to death. Sometimes, we lose someone through other circumstances such as separation, abandonment, and falling apart. In all these cases, grief sets in.

Grief is but a natural response to loss. It could make us sad, angry, disoriented. Nevertheless, no matter what the reason for the loss might be, in order for the grief to heal, a time of mourning is needed (Ecclesiastes 3:4). We mourn in pain. We mourn in sorrow.

For some, the process takes months. And yet, for some, the process takes years. Still, however short or long it entails to get past the mourning, we have been left with the promise that those who mourn are blessed, for they shall be comforted (Matthew 5:4). The Holy Spirit is our Comforter (John 14:26). In Him we gather our strength to overcome the pain of loss. With every grief in the night comes joy in the morning (Psalm 30:5)!

Reflection: Have you ever lost a loved one? A friendship? Or a job? Whatever the loss may be, it certainly was painful. When such moments happen, whom do you run to? Do you run to God for comfort? Do you tell Him of your pain and grief? Or do you resent Him for allowing your loss to happen?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank you for comforting me at moments when I am grieving. Your joy is the strength of my heart. The pain of loss may be too great, but having you beside me helps me get past the pain. Amen.