I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

John 14:18

Not long after my parents sold their home, a raging fire burned down about a third of the houses in their neighborhood. Years later, I visited the nearby cemetery where my dad was buried. A light rain fell. Charred tree trunks still surrounded the gravestones. This desolate environment portrayed my emptiness. I lovingly rubbed my fingers over my father’s name engraved in the stone.

Searching for peace, I stopped by the sparse neighborhood where I had often chatted and laughed with my dad. To my surprise, glowing grasses and colorful bushes dotted these vacant lots. The sun came out, highlighting a brilliant, new landscape. It was stunning!

My heavenly Father assured me that He rejuvenates my experiences. The world’s troubles cannot overpower His love for His children.

Lisa Heule
Littleton, CO

My Father, You delight me in colorful ways; You bring joy and peace to my sorrow. Amen.

Reflect: Does inviting God into your grief comfort you with hope?

Read: John 14:25-27 and Romans 15:13