13. Prayers of a Life in Tension by Stephen W. Hiemstra

Resurrected Lord:

Thank you for the hope that comes in the midst of life and death.

Be especially present with those that grieve—

Grieve over the loss of a loved one,

Grieve over a life not lived according to plan,

Grieve over sin and brokeness and shame.

Show us the road to recovery, wholeness, and restoration.

Show us the plans that you have laid out for us,

Plans for welfare, not evil, for a future, and a hope in you.

Grant us godly grief that produces repentance and redemption and new life in joy.

In the power of your Holy Spirit, wipe away our tears

So that we might behold the Father.

In Jesus’ name, amen.