The darkest day in history had passed. It didn’t seem possible to Christ’s followers, but life went on. It was the Sabbath. Passover. They couldn’t understand in the moment the current significance of the lamb.
They just knew that the One they’d put their trust and hope in had been killed at the command of those who were meant to preserve and enforce their faith.
The earth had shaken. The sky went dark. Strange things happened. Jesus’ followers were left alone and disillusioned.
Have you ever lost someone close enough to you that it seemed strange, nearly impossible, that the sun came up the next day? But the sun did come up again.
As it did then. But it was a dark day.
We know what was coming. The disciples just had to hold on a bit longer for Light to burst forth. They didn’t know they were starting a new life, better for its breaking.
Maybe you feel lost in the darkness. Maybe it feels like darkness fills you.
Depression steals hope. It blinds you to grace. It makes you believe light has been extinguished to never shine for you again.
I know. I’ve been there.
But here’s what I’ve learned…
The One who overcame death has the power to overcome any darkness in me.
When darkness descends, and is not lifted as quickly as I hope, He will use it for His glory, my good, and the good of others.
My responsibility is to trust, to grow in patience and wisdom through the process, and praise Him with a grateful heart for how He is working – whether or not I can see His hand moving. I must seek His face to remember who He is.
When I remember who He is, I am freed to remember who I am.
If you are struggling today, turn your eyes to the empty cross. Remember Jesus Christ is the One who overcame death. Praise God for the resurrection of His Son. When praise clears your eyes and heart, you will remember who you are: Christ’s Beloved, the one for whom He suffered and died on the cross, and for whom He intercedes.
You are LOVED. And He will give you EVERYTHING you need to accomplish His will for your life.
Your life will be better for its brokenness. When you give Him the pieces.
Text in bold originally appeared on my previous blog, Found, on March 31, 2013
READ MORE ABOUT SURVIVING THE DARKNESS OF DEPRESSION
Advent and Depression: The Waiting
Trusting through the Agony
Unhappy Dawn: Feelings vs. Truth
My Ecclesiastes