Types of Tears
Virginia Spiers of Independence, MO, USA
Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD.
Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
to the voice of my supplications!
If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you,
so that you may be revered.
I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope; -Psalm 130:1-5
Tears fell into my cereal bowl during my devotional time this morning as my thoughts and feelings caused me to cry sweet tears because of my connection with God’s Holy Spirit. Never before had I given much thought to the many reasons why we shed tears, but I was aware of the times that brought tears to my eyes:
Sweet tears of memorable blessings
Sad tears for the ugly things of life
Tears of hope
Tears for the awareness of the pure love that God instills in us
Tears of compassion that lead us to reach out to others who are in need
Tears of rejoicing with others in their times of blessing
It has been about six years since my husband passed from my life. I am so thankful for what I learned from him. He had the faith and courage to face life, overcoming obstacles that would keep him from obtaining his goals. For that reason I can shed tears of joy.
Tears are God’s blessings that have a therapeutic value for us. May the tears you shed bring to you God’s peace and the desire to count His blessings throughout your lifetime.
Prayer Phrase
“… the breath of the Almighty gives me life” (Job 33:4).
Spiritual Practice
Breathing God’s Compassion
Pay attention to your breathing and let it become calmer and deeper as you focus on God’s presence. Ask God to breathe in you. Imagine each breath carrying the light of God into your lungs, bloodstream, and every cell in your body until God’s Spirit fills you. Now imagine breathing out God’s compassion and grace each time you exhale, especially into places and situations in need of loving care. Give thanks to the Spirit, source of every breath, source of life.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
