Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? ” For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:54-57

Dear God, I learned of a couple of deaths yesterday. One man I had met bit didn’t know and another man I didn’t know at all, but he was known well by friends. One was sudden but of natural causes and the other by a violent car accident. Now, I’m thinking about the pain both deaths left behind. I’m thinking about the sting. I don’t know how either man felt about you and I don’t know the state of their souls now. But I do know that you loved them.

Now, there are family and friends left behind. I am sorry for them. Please comfort them. And please make these two painful situations count. Use them to heal relationships, addictions, and attitudes towards you. Draw each person who is touching these situations to yourself. As they experience the funerals and hear from pastors. As they visit with friends and seek comfort. Help everyone to not miss the opportunity to know you better and to experience your complete healing. Bring your kingdom into the world through these tragic losses. Redeem the sting for your glory.

In Jesus’s name I pray,

Amen