Read: Isaiah 46:3-4

Reflect: During my lifetime, the average life expectancy for a person living in the United States has increased by nearly ten years. We are living longer, and with significantly more complex health issues than ever before. This means that many more of us are having to face the difficult decision of hospice care for ourselves, or for someone we love. Whether we are the one being cared for, or the one seeking hospice care for a loved one, God’s words through the prophet Isaiah can be a source of comfort and strength. We do not make this decision… we do not undertake this journey alone. The One who created us in love is with us. God promises to carry us throughout our earthly days, and gently bring us at the last into eternal life.

Prayer: Holy and life-giving God, whose mercy is without end, look with grace upon name

[and name’s family and friends] as they face the future. Guide those who will accompany name

in the days to come, so that name will be cared for and comforted. Uphold them in all your abiding love, and sustain them with your peace, which surpasses all understanding; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

(from All Creation Sings, p. 55. ©2020 Augsburg Fortress, used by permission.)

WEBSITE WORD: Peace