Daily Devotions for Monday, July 7, 2025: Remembering with Grace: Honoring Loved Ones on Their Heavenly Birthday

 

The Daily Devotional

Monday, July 7, 2025

Remembering with Grace: Honoring Loved Ones on Their Heavenly Birthday

You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your record? (Psalm 56:8)

Introduction

Birthdays of loved ones who have passed away often bring a mixture of fond memories and fresh grief. Psalm 56:8 reminds us that God sees and honors even the quietest sorrow—we are never alone in our remembrance.

Reflection

When Susan’s mother passed away, she began a quiet ritual each year on her mom’s birthday. She’d make a cup of her mother’s favorite tea, pull out an old photo album, and take a long walk through the park they once visited together. Though no party was planned, no candles lit, the day was sacred—filled with laughter, tears, and prayer. What comforted her most was knowing that God wasn’t indifferent to her grief. As Psalm 56 says, He counts our tears and collects them like treasure.

In a world that quickly moves on, God does not. He lingers with us in our memories, walking through the familiar joys and aches that resurface on birthdays. The tears we shed on these special days aren’t forgotten or wasted—they are recorded in the heart of our compassionate Father.

Application

Consider creating a simple remembrance tradition on your loved one’s birthday—light a candle, cook their favorite meal, or write them a letter. Let your remembrance become a quiet offering to God, trusting that He receives it with love. You might also reach out to someone else who is grieving today—shared sorrow becomes shared strength.

Conclusion

God does not overlook our pain; He honors it. As we remember those we’ve lost, especially on their birthdays, we can be assured that our grief is holy ground—every tear, a silent prayer that reaches Heaven.

Prayer

Loving Father, today I remember someone who shaped my life and still holds a place in my heart. Their birthday stirs joy and sorrow, laughter and longing. Thank You for the gift of their life and for walking with me through both the love and the loss. Hold my tears tenderly, Lord, and fill this day with Your comforting presence. Help me honor their memory in ways that bring peace and hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA

The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.