A Prayer at the Bedside of a Dying Loved One

Lord Jesus, you who took the sting out of death (1 Corinthians 15:55) and went ahead of us to prepare a place (John 14:2–3) — draw near to this bed tonight. Let Simeon's song be on our lips: Now let your servant depart in peace (Luke 2:29). The valley of the shadow is a valley you walked ahead of us (Psalm 23:4; Hebrews 6:20) — walk it with them now, one slow step at a time. As you told the thief beside you on the cross, Today you will be with me in Paradise (Luke 23:43), speak it again in this room. Precious in your sight is the death of your saints (Psalm 116:15). Receive their spirit as gently as you received Stephen's (Acts 7:59). And to those of us who stay behind, give the peace that surpasses our understanding (Philippians 4:7). Amen.