God who is near, I stand at the edge of sorrow I did not earn.
I didn't know them well. But I know their loss aches in the room. I see the tears that don't need explaining. I feel the weight of a life quietly lived.
Thank You for the mercy shown to them. Thank You for the neighbors who gathered. Thank You that joy can still break through sorrow.
Steady my heart. Loosen my jaw. Remind me to sit with what is.
You hold both grief and gratitude in the same hand. You do not ask me to choose. Help me stay here, not rush past.
In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.