Pause
Entering into prayer, I take a moment to pause in silence and quiet the noise of the day within my mind. I place my hand upon my heart, feeling its steady beat, knowing that You are just as faithfully here with me and within me. I turn my eyes toward You and feel Your tender gaze resting upon me in return.
Ask
God, hear my prayer for the dying, for those who stand at the threshold between life on earth and life with You beyond it. As they approach this holy moment of transition, may they receive the comfort of Your presence and Your gentle assurance that they will not make this journey alone. Give comfort as well to all who will grieve the loss of their loved ones here on earth.
Listen
I imagine sitting in a quiet place with You, God, and opening my heart to hear You speak. I feel your tender compassion as I remember the words of the psalmist, that precious in your eyes is the death of your faithful ones. I recall the assurance of the preface to the Mass for the Dead: that in death life is changed, not taken away. I imagine you holding the dying in your gentle embrace.
Share
Jesus, I know that you grieved the loss of your friend Lazarus, and I feel safe bringing my sorrow and worry for the dying to You. Although I know You will welcome the dying into Your loving presence, it is still so difficult to let them go, to say goodbye. I imagine you keeping vigil with me at the bedside of the dying, sharing in my sorrow and offering hope of a new life.
Reflect
I take several deep breaths of gratitude, knowing that just as Jesus was present to the dying during his time on earth, so God remains especially close to all who approach the transition into eternal life. I pause to express thanks for the consolations of prayer and for the comfort of the Holy Spirit as I hold the dying close in my heart.
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