Guided Journal: Companion in Grief

A sacred journal companion for those navigating the holy and human grief journey.

Introduction

Grief is a sacred part of our spiritual journey—a doorway to the graces God has to offer in loss. Whether sudden or anticipated, grief reshapes how we see the world and ourselves. This guided journal is presented gently, not to fix what hurts, but to hold you in it.

May it be a comfort as you walk through the valley with the One who never leaves your side.

📖 Books to Companion You in Grief

• A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis: A raw, honest reflection on loss and longing, written after the death of Lewis's wife.

• When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd: A poetic, spiritual reflection on waiting, transformation, and divine presence.

• Bearing the Unbearable by Joanne Cacciatore: A compassionate and validating book that honors deep sorrow.

• Healing After Loss by Martha Whitmore Hickman: Daily reflections that provide gentle hope and a soft landing for each day.

Reflection Prompt: Which book or line from above resonates most with where you are today?

→ Write a few words about what touched your heart and why.

🧘‍♀️ Embodied Practices for Grief

✨ Chest Opener (Heart Expansion)

• Lie on your back with a rolled towel or bolster under your shoulder blades.

• Let your arms open wide, palms up.

• Breathe deeply and slowly.

  
  

🕊 Breath Prayer for Grief

• Inhale: "Jesus, meet me here..."

• Exhale: "...in this tender ache."

  
  

Reflection Prompt: What do you notice in your body after practicing this movement or breath?

→ Let your body give language to what words may not fully hold...

⚫️ Scriptures for Prayer and Reflection

John 11:32–36 Jesus Weeps at Lazarus' Tomb

"Jesus began to weep..."

Prompt: When you imagine Jesus weeping with you, what emotions surface?

→ Let your grief be held by the One who understands it fully.

Luke 24:13–35 The Road to Emmaus

"Jesus himself came near and walked with them..."

Prompt: Where in your life do you need to feel Jesus walking beside you today?

→ Write what you would say to Him on the road...

Psalm 34:18

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted..."

Prompt: What does it mean for you to let God be "close" in this season?

→ Invite God into your broken places and describe what you notice...

Psalm 130 – Out of the Depths I Cry to You

Prompt: What do you need to cry out today?

→ Let this be a safe place to speak or write your sorrow aloud...

Revelation 21:3–5

"He will wipe every tear..."

Prompt: What hope do you still hold, even if it feels fragile?

→ Write a blessing over your own heart...

📝 Final Reflection: Grief as Love That Remains

Grief is not the absence of love. The echo of love is a sacred ache that speaks of connection.

Prompt: What or whom are you missing today? How has your love grown even through the loss?

→ Let your reflection be a prayer of remembrance and love.

☕ Closing Blessing

May you find gentleness in each breath. May the ache you carry open you to grace. May you be held by God, just as you are. You are not alone.

If this journal brings you peace or you know someone who may be blessed by it, please share it. I'm here if you'd like to journey deeper through spiritual direction.

With love and prayer,

Kimi Nettuno