God Meets Us There

I remember one year when I was serving a church in Sarasota, we hosted a regional gathering of Stephen Ministers. And they sent in an older gentleman to come and speak on grief counseling. Right away it was clear that he was speaking out of a deeply personal experience. He had grown up a nominal Catholic – and for years he did not attend church. But that changed.

He shared with us that 10 years earlier his 21-year-old daughter was killed in an alcohol-related car crash. Of course, it was devastating. Somehow in trying to work through his grief and pain, he reconnected to his faith in a powerful way. In fact, he had joined a Benedictine community – not an ordained monk – but as a lay oblate.  He had taken a set of vows and committed to the daily disciplines. As a part of this, he was volunteering with Stephen ministries – attempting to help others through their pain. He told us, “God met me in my darkest moment, and God continues to meet me as I minister to others in their darkest moments.”

Now, I don’t believe that God brings on the heartbreaking and troubling times in our lives. But I do believe that God meets us there. And I do believe there is an opportunity to come out on the other side of the darkness, deeper, more faithful, stronger, and more courageous.

I pray today that wherever you are on the journey of faith that God would meet you there. I pray for strength and courage and healing.

In the book of Hebrews we read these words of encouragement:

… God has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” (Hebrews 13:5-6)

Let us pray:  God of grace, in the troubling moments of life, help us to trust that you are with us. Grant us the strength and the courage to face the day. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.