DAILY DEVOT IONAL 30

Rev. Dr. William D. Carter, III

Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning. - Psalm 30:5b

HEALING IN THE MORNING

I started playing the piano at the tender age of seven. My grandmother, Edna m. Brown, was the one who introduced me to this magnificent instrument. Not long after she taught me, she had me leading songs in the church choir. Many of these were familiar hymns and gospel songs, such as Amazing Grace, Order My Steps, and Melodies from Heaven. To this day, I cannot sing or play the piano without thinking about the woman who shaped my musical journey, my grandmother.

When she passed away in October 2023, I feared that my life would be consumed by grief because of the deep and profound bond we shared. However, in the midst of my sorrow, I found joy. Yes, joy in knowing that for 88 years, she loved, nurtured, and supported my musical and preaching ministry. It was then that I truly understood that healing from grief is not an overnight destination but a journey. Even though the pain of loss still lingers, I choose to celebrate her life and influence, finding comfort in the promise that joy indeed comes with the morning.

PRAYER:

God of eternal love, we lift up those who are on a journey of healing and grief. May they experience the joy that comes when we embrace the Spirit of Christ, who grants us peace beyond our understanding. Amen.

QUESTION:

What do I need to do to embrace joy in this season of my life?