When a Public Figure Passes

Everlasting God,today we crash up againstthe brevity and fragility of human life.The creatures you have made area passing shadow,a withering grass,a vanishing mist.You have removed the sting of death,and yet death has stung us today.

Father of Mercies,shower the grieving with abundant comfortas they mourn this loss.Shield loved ones from the prodding of the media;penetrate their sorrow with the joy of good memoriesand the hope of Christ.God of All Comfort,be generous with your lightening goodnessin the face of this family’s heavy grief.

And deliver peace to those who loved Hayden Panettierefrom afar,finding joy in her workand treasuring her contributionto this moment in history.

You, O Lord, measure the moments of your creaturesfrom the smallest to the greatest.Teach me to number my daysand keep their end ever before me,that I might learn to fear you and gain wisdomfor whatever lifespan you give.Make me as eager for my appointment with the Savioras a child packed and ready for vacationweeks ahead of schedule.Thank you that we can walk toward that coming daywithout fear,confident that death will sting no moreand the best of life is yet ahead.Grow this hope in me,that it might overflow in my grieving world.

Amen