Today’s Reflection
I take comfort in my church family who love me well in your absence. I feel their encouragement and grace as the presence of God. Still, I miss the warmth of my hand in yours.
—Missy Buchanan, Feeling Your Way Through Grief: A Companion for Life After Loss (Upper Room Books, 2024)
Save 15% on this week’s featured book when you use promo code NEM0726 at Store.UpperRoom.org.*
Today’s Question
How might you encourage a friend who is grieving a loss? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
—Romans 8:38-29 (NRSVUE)
Prayer for the Week
O God, let me feel your presence in the darkness of my grief. Be with me in the silence; be with me when I weep; be with me as I find a way forward. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
“It was a blessing to personally witness the love between Missy and her beloved husband Barry,” reflects Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts. “The bond they experienced is apparent in Missy’s latest book and is a safe place for readers to explore their deepest emotions.”
Missy Buchanan’s bestselling book, Feeling Your Way Through Grief, is now also available in Spanish.
Lectionary Readings
- Genesis 32:22-31
- Psalm 17:1-7, 15
- Romans 9:1-5
- Matthew 14:13-21
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
*Offer valid through August 15, 2026.
