God, someone I care deeply for has just received the kind of news no human being ever wants to hear, and I don’t know how to navigate the sadness and the fear that has come with it. I feel helpless, God. My mind is filled with questions about what the future holds, my heart is heavy with the task of having to grieve someone who is still alive, with having to watch someone I love experience the kind of pain I’d do anything to take away, to weather in their place.

This feels unfair, God. But know that I am holding fast, that I am trusting that you are in control. I know that there is nothing that can happen along this journey that won’t be touched by your loving care, and I know that you are strong enough for us both. I know that you are strong enough to ease this hurt.

And so, I lift my loved one up to you, God. Please, wrap them in your presence and let them feel your peace in a way that is unyielding and warm. Keep them safe. Let them know, deep in their bones, that they are not alone in this fight. Remind them that before a single cell in their body was formed, you knew them, you chose them, you willed them into this world. Please, make it clear that you see their pain, that you hear their prayers, and that you are beside them every step of the way.

I pray for your healing, God. I know that nothing is impossible for you. Whether through doctors, treatment, or a miracle beyond my understanding, I ask for your hand to move in their life. Strengthen their body, give wisdom to those of us caring for them, and let every step of this darkened path be covered in your grace. If there are moments of pain, ease them. If there are moments of doubt, fill them with faith. If fear creeps in, replace it with the assurance of your timing, of your presence, of your love.

And God, I am trying my best, but I need you, too. It’s hard to see someone I love suffer. It’s hard to not know what’s ahead, to watch my superheroes lose their powers, to watch the strongest person I know weaken before my eyes. But I don’t want to let fear rule my heart, I don’t want to constrict around this pain. Help me to trust you. Help me to lean into my faith, even when it’s difficult. Even when the road is uncertain, let me honor the truth that you are walking beside us. That you go before us. That you hold every moment in your hands.

Give me strength to be a source of encouragement for my loved one. Help me speak words that bring hope to their worries, help me to offer support in ways that truly matter, and help me to reflect your love in everything I do. When I don’t have the right words, let my presence be enough. When I feel helpless, remind me that prayer is powerful and that you are always listening.

God, I surrender this situation to you. I lay down my fears. I lay down my worries. I lay down my need to control what I cannot understand. I choose to trust that you are working even when I can’t see it. I choose to believe that you are a God of hope, a God of comfort, and a God who is always faithful.

Please, surround us with your love, God. Hold us in your peace. And no matter what tomorrow brings, help us to remember that you are already there.

Amen