Conquering DeathSampl

Fear of Dying Alone

How do I know God is with me when I feel alone?

As death approaches we can feel like a child in the dark. Shadows are scary, becoming imaginary monsters. Sounds seem to signal an intruder in our midst. Familiar bedroom objects are transformed into dangerous phantoms.

If we have experienced trauma, combat, or abuse, approaching death may jerk us back into that former reality with such force that it is difficult to know what is real and what is not. Our very faith may be shaken; thus the core of who we are may waver and threaten to dissolve. How important it is then to return to the foundation of our strength, to turn to the Scriptures which have helped past generations claim the living God as their Shield, their Rock, and their Fortress.

Readings from the Old Testament

Many of the psalm writers wrote of their trust in God and the assurance that God will never forsake us.

Psalm 46:1-3, 11

Psalm 27:1, 7-10

Psalm 57:1-3

Psalm 61:1-5

Psalm 91:1-2, 14-15

Psalm 120:1

Psalm 121

Psalm 139:1-18, 23-24

Psalm 51:10-12, 17

Psalm 59:16-17

Psalm 145:13b, 14, 17-19

The prophet Isaiah assures us of God’s constant love and care. God says,

Isaiah 41:10a

Isaiah 43:1-3, 5a

Isaiah 40:28-31

Isaiah 49:13-16

Readings from the New Testament

Jesus has promised to keep you in God the Father’s care. Jesus said:

John 10.27-30

The apostle Paul assures us that God has sent the Holy Spirit to help us and that nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Romans 8.26,27,31-39

Trust in God’s promise to be with you always.

Hebrews 13.5b

Claim the hope that is yours because of God’s great love for you.

Hebrews 6.18b,19a; 10.23

The peace that only God can give will comfort and sustain you.

Philippians 4.7

Thoughts for Reflection

1. When did I start feeling alone? What did I tell myself when I felt alone? How can I change my feelings into actions that express care for myself?
2. Is there a reason that I feel I should be alone? If so, can I decide that as God’s child I can ask for the comfort of someone I trust?
3. Am I willing to make a decision in faith that God is with me, even when I feel alone?
4. Am I willing to share my sense of loneliness with God and one other person?

Prayer

O Lord, my Lord, how often I forget you are at my side. My fear keeps me from your presence. Yet when I calm myself I remember your faithfulness, how you have always carried me even when I could not feel you near.

Forgive my loss of trust; renew a confident spirit within me. Help me feel your presence in the smallest act of kindness, in a gentle smile or a warm “hello.” Open my heart to be renewed in the joy of your peace and your presence. Amen.