The world is a quieter place this morning for the people who are no longer in it. Most days we go about our business without thinking of those in grief or glad we are not among them. That isn’t rude or inappropriate. It’s human nature not to dwell on others’ pain. But some days the grief comes home, either to us or to people we love.
Today is such a day for me.
The blog is observing a moment of silence in honor of a very dear friend. His loss is personal, and not something I will make public here. Instead I request that you pause and say a prayer, on behalf of my friend and his family or for someone else you know who needs it. If you consider yourself “not the praying kind,” feel free to use the moment for silent reflection and compassion.
The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
(Psalm 23)