Sustained

For a long time after my stepson Ryan’s death, my tears would flow every Sunday during the worship portion of church. I’d stare at a stained-glass window that depicted Jesus carrying a lamb with sheep following him. I knew I was the lamb he was carrying. We were new to this congregation and didn’t know everyone or their stories, but they knew ours. As I looked around, I saw faces filled with understanding.

Later I would get to know our fellow parishioners, many of whom shared with me their stories of loss and how they made it through. That’s when it became clear that while Jesus was carrying me, wrapped in the comfort and safety of his arms, he’d also sent his flock to walk with me. In the sympathetic faces of my fellow believers I saw their faith, and their faith strengthened my hold on my own. In those difficult days, I needed Jesus and those friendships. Now I try to extend my hand to those who are facing their own losses, helping them find and cling to their faith.