Today we remember the sacrifice of those who gave of their lives so we can live blessed and free. Have a wonderful Remembrance/Veteran's Day!

“Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” Psalm 27:14

Do you have a favorite article of clothing or a special piece of jewelry you save only for special occasions? The item might not follow the latest fashion trend — like your grandfather's old pocket watch or your worn-in cap or hoodie — but it’s something that you take comfort in wearing, simply because of the special memories that are associated with it.

One such item for me is my “mom jeans,” the last present my mom gave me before she passed away. Whenever I put them on, I am brought back to a different November, not only her birth month, but the last time I saw her alive. It brings me joy to remember these times during the upcoming holidays. The jeans also draw me to the sadness of missing her.

Special items or holidays can bring up a painful past. I encourage you that when you are confronted with these things, let the laughter and tears fall. Time will heal things if you allow yourself to grieve as needed this holiday. Grieve for the things lost, the times past, and ultimately, remember you can be at peace because of the hope of Christ within you.  

The truth is, our time here many be limited and we indeed shed tears over losses. But we are promised an eternity full of peace and hope and joy, and that lives inside of us when we trust the Lord. Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart, friends. Wait for Him to turn the saddest memories into comfort. And on the days when you need a good cry, let it out, trusting that Jesus too, has wept (John 11:35) and also calls us to a deeper hope, over which the barrier of death has no eternal power (1 Cor 15:55).

Dear Lord, sometimes, the holidays bring up sour feelings for me. Feelings of lost love, lost people, and lost time. Please help me to focus most on what I do have this season — You, and others in Your kingdom who You have put in my life. Help me to have a good community to minister to and to be ministered by, and please help me to feel safe to let go and grieve as it comes. Your peace is what I want and need most, and I am thankful it is mine! In Jesus’ name, amen.

Take Action

As you approach the holidays, try to spend some time remembering things past, the people who have impacted you, and also how you can remember to wait on God for His ultimate hope.



Tags: Hope