I found hope in the little exchange between Theoden and Eowyn on the eve of battle in Tolkien’s Return of the King.

Theoden: I have left instruction. The people are to follow your rule in my stead. Take up my seat in the Golden Hall. Long may you defend Edoras if the battle goes ill.
Eowyn: What other duty would you have me do?
Theoden: Duty? No… I would have you smile again, not grieve for those whose time has come. You shall live to see these days renewed. No more despair.

This reminds me that there can be no duty where the love of my Father is concerned. His is a posture and call is love. There can be no other God but the God of love.