Allison Lynn

Grace For The Grieving Heart

Four years ago this month, I stood in the back of our church and cried.

It had been a long week, a long year, a long journey. We had booked a venue, planned a reception, hired a DJ, and bought the most beautiful dress I had ever seen. Our family had flown in from around the country. A perfect snow had fallen over the lawns of the church.

And now, there I stood at the back of our church, in that most beautiful dress. My best friend looked beautiful with her encouraging smile. My parents wrapped their arms around me. And just a few feet away, a straight walk down the aisle, Gerald was waiting for me.

I had given up on the idea of ever finding love or marriage, and now, it was all coming true. How could I not cry?

Just a few years before, I had stood in that exact sanctuary, giving the eulogy for Steve, a man I had loved so much. For months after, I cried daily as I struggled through the darkness of grief and anger. I screamed at God for “leaving” me in my despair.

But God knew my pain better than anyone, and He understood my anger. He gave my parents extra strength so they could hold me up. He expanded the heart of my best friend so she could love me in my mess. And He sent me Gerald to be my rock and my love.

And then, after my anger had had its run, God was still there when my heart re-opened to love, hope, and life.

So four years ago, this month, I stood in the back of our church, and cried tears of wonder and joy - for the journey, for my amazing friends and family, for the man about to become my husband, and for a God who was faithful and true.

Wherever you are in your journey today - whether you are traveling in the darkness, in the light, or about to take on a new chapter in life - please know that God is loving you, supporting you, and offering you abundant and amazing grace!

Allison Lynn
http://www.AllisonLynn.com
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