The Second Year

Many people think the first year after the death of a loved one, or a divorce, is the hardest. Those "firsts" are big hurdles to get over - first birthday, anniversary, Thanksgiving, Christmas.... Each one is a challenge to get through. I think most of us try to gather 'round those we know and love who have experienced a deep loss and extend extra care at those times. But after a year has passed, we tend to forget, and life goes on.

But I've often heard people say that the second year is even harder than the first. Maybe it's because most people don't remember to extend that same care the second year. After all, most of us are so busy, especially at the holidays. Maybe it's that, while the wounds are no longer fresh, the scars remain as a reminder of what was but is no longer.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God (2 Corinthians 1:2-4 (New King James Version).

Maybe you're one of those who has experienced loss and know what I'm talking about. One of the best bits of advice I've ever received is to get my eyes off myself and focus on others. Now is the time to find others who need to know the comfort that you've received. Send a card or an email. Make a phone call. Send flowers. Drop by for a visit. Invite someone over for coffee or dinner.

As we approach Christmas and New Year's, reach out to someone you know who may be having a difficult time getting through the holidays, and bless them with the love of Jesus. You'll be blessed in return.

Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.

DIGGING DEEPER
John 1:
3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.