Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Romans 12:15
Comment
We sat this week and chatted with some friends who are experiencing the excitement of the impending arrival of their first child – at about the same time later this year that our son and daughter-in-law will present us with our second grandchild. Very different emotions were being experienced when we spoke last month with our nephew and his wife about her ectopic pregnancy and the likelihood that they may not be able to have children of their own.
The same deeply-held desire but with very different outcomes and resultant emotional responses. God walks with us through all situations of our life and asks us to do the same with our family and friends.
Prayer (as a couple)
Father, thank you for all the reasons for joy that you bring into our life. Thank you also for being with us at our times of real sorrow – although we admit we sometimes find it harder to sense your presence at those times. Amen
Prayer (for others)
Father we pray for _____ and _____. We rejoice with them at this time of exciting news and ask that you will bless them as they prepare for the arrival of their child. Amen
and/or
We pray for _____ and _____. Comfort them as they face their sorrow and disappointment. Help us to respond in the right way and to be part of meeting their very real need. Amen
