Like the beautiful presence of a tender and courageous father, Jesus wept with Martha and Mary.  He proclaimed,

I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in Me, even though they die like everyone else, will live again. — John 11:25 NLT

I'm overwhelmed to know that I have a heavenly father who not only holds me when I'm weeping, but He also promises me life in abundance.  He is the perfect life coach.  Just enough empathy to feel heard and held along with a life-changing, locker room, pep talk. Today my middle child moves out and into the world of work, rent, and college. You don't let go without remembering.  Remembering is complicated.

God we honor grace, mercy, forgiveness, and the journey you've brought us through.  Our hope is in our days moving forward in that same grace.

Her empty room is a mixture of weeping and an empty "tomb" in which she soars into her new life–her story with God.  "Oh the Places You Will Go!"

The expression of "they grow up so fast" has come to pass in my life.  Just yesterday we were eating pancakes, reading books, and watching Dragon Tales.

We praise God for His comfort and coaching–a new beginning.  God, today, we give you all we can right where we are in the midst of change and transition. Help us to once and for all lay it down and move into the beauty of your love and promises. Help us to rid ourselves of fear and embrace your tears and joy for us in all we face.

Lauren Daigle- Once And For All