My Soul’s Relief in Times of Grief

A Lectio Divina Poem Inspired by Sweet Hour of Prayer by William Walford

“Sweet hour of prayer

Sweet hour of prayer

That calls me from a world of care

And bids me at my Father’s throne

Make all my wants and wishes known

In seasons of distress and grief

My soul has often found relief”

There are no words to describe the grief of losing a loved one. 

There is no set amount of time that can wash away all your tears and broken heart.

The world will continue to move forward assuming a condition of normalcy 

And yet a sweet hour of prayer calls you away from the world’s expectations

A moment of transparency and vulnerability holding space for all your grief and pain

Being held in the love of God. A gentle and consoling love. 

There is no shame in letting your grief be known. 

There is no shame in lamenting the departure of a beautiful soul.

For God knows your needs, feels every tear, and heals every wound

In seasons of distress and grief, trust God to be your soul’s relief

“Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you.” (Psalm 55:22)

Enter into a sweet moment, minute, or hour of prayer; trusting that God will always make room for you.

Enter with no expectations of yourself except to simply be and feel. For God will catch if you feel you are falling

He will raise you up if you feel like your heart is drowning, he will hold you when you feel alone

He will provide community for love and support and He’ll provide rest when the night feels long

For in all of your sadness, pain, and grief, God is always there to provide your soul sweet, compassionate relief.