God of new beginnings and winter days,
as we emerge from the tunnel of sorrow and grief—
both our own and that of those we have had the privilege of
encountering & ministering with this past week—
remind us that even as You are with us in our deepest and darkest valleys,
You also, always go ahead of us.
Even in the midst of sorrow and grief,
deep calls to deep
and You beckon us forward.
Help us to hear and have the courage
to respond to that call,
stepping out in faith & trusting You are both
leading the way and walking beside us.
And as we venture out into the world,
go with us and keep us safe
until we are able to return.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.