Relationship Shifts in WidowhoodSample

“He is a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age…”

Ruth 4:15 (ESV)

We find today’s scripture near the end of the Biblical story of Naomi and Ruth. You’ll remember that Naomi, after losing her husband and sons, declared that she no longer wanted to be called Naomi, which means pleasant, delightful, and lovely. She preferred to be called Mara, meaning bitter. But Naomi did not stay as “Mara” forever. The season changed, her joy was restored, and once again she walked in the fullness of her identity and purpose.

Seasons do change. This is something we, and those around us, must embrace. When it comes to family and loved ones, we must be honest with ourselves and others about where we are in the process. We can keep the communication open and clear through love and respect as we prayerfully step forward into the new season when the time is right.

It may feel uncomfortable or like you are not respecting the memory of your deceased spouse, but it is okay for seasons to change. It is okay to bring new people into your life. It is okay to move, change homes, change jobs, etc.- to find your new rhythms of life. God teaches that there are seasons, and it is okay for you to enter a new season.

CHALLENGE:

Have a conversation with a family member or friend this week about where you are in the grieving process. Do you feel like you are still in the mourning phase or are you in a place where you can see yourself moving forward? Why or why not? Though it may be a difficult conversation, it is an important one to have with the people who love and support you.

JOURNAL:

Spend some time reflecting on your favorite season. What makes it your favorite? How do you see both beauty and pain in that favorite season? Spend some time writing a prayer to God about your favorite season and the beauty of His creation.