Prayer: Dawn Faith. Artist: Ruramai Musekiwa.
I wrote the book, “Dear God” to reflect on our experience of losing our first child. It was about being able to say to God, “yes I felt hurt by what has happened to me and yes, I know what it says in Romans 8:28 and yes it might work out all right eventually for me, but right now, I don’t see the good.”
Psalm 23 was one of my my favourite scriptures at that time. I used to recite it, even when I saw the lights dim. I’d say it and say it again. One of the things through all this is that my husband Nick and I talk a lot about how scripture has become real to us. We now know that, “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil for you are with me”.
The Psalm ends with this reassurance “All the days of my life”. Not some of the days. All the days. But that is at the end. Once you have gone through the valley, once you have acknowledged and accepted that he has walked with you. Once you have found the space in yourself to rest in the darkness, to find peace in the darkness, you can know that he is always there with you. I love it.
Dear father God,
It seems so easy to submit to fear & anxiety when faced with uncertainty and dark clouds. Somehow I forget the truth & the assurance that comes from knowing You. Thank you that your love & presence transcends my humanity. Thank you that, in spite of my doubts, fears and pain, your love persistently chases after me with one purpose in Spirit; to restore me back to you.
The comfort of your love takes away my fear and brings me peace. For this, I’m forever grateful.
I love you.
Amen.
Pray for children who are supported by the work of TEAR’s partners, particularly those who are vulnerable to disease, abuse and conflict.
We invite you to prayerfully consider joining this work of restoration and hope by supporting Tearfund’s partners to overcome poverty and injustice.
Dawn Faith is a recording artist, speaker, author, social activist and the host of her own TV show “Deep & Meaningful”. She’s also a former TEAR employee, as part of our education team. She uses her music, faith and extraordinary passion for justice to pursue change in this world. Dawn lives in Johannesburg with her husband Nick and their young son.
Read more about Dawn, and the transformative experience of creating a worship anthem for the global Renew Our World campaign.
Ruramai Musekiwa is a Zimbabwe-born visual artist and founder of 'Sibahle' – a Social Enterprise that seeks to cultivate positive African narratives through creative mediums. Sibahle means "We are Beautiful".
An Easter resource for small groups and families. With a background on Psalm 23 as well as questions and discussion starters.
