Through the Darkness

Perhaps it’s just me, or my heightened awareness of such things, but yet another person in my sphere of acquaintance has been diagnosed with a form of cancer. The details and prognosis of this particular case are still working themselves out, but the roller coaster of emotions has already begun for their entire family. Once we hear the dreaded "C" word, there is a time of shock and anger, followed by some depression. Then folks either begin to rally emotionally or sink deeper, depending on their disposition and support network. Even if the doctors proclaim the cancer to be mild, early or slow-growing, it still catches us off guard and sends us through the full gauntlet of those emotions. Such moments remind us of our mortality and force us to face some of the larger and more difficult questions of life. These can also be times of reflection, when we revitalize core relationships and endeavor to "do" life better. Whatever our response, most of those involved go through times of darkness and doubt, when we struggle with the "whys" and the "hows" of our situations. Sometimes the answers to those kinds of questions can seem elusive and frustrating. They rob us of our strength and our joy, causing us to become angry with ourselves, our loved ones, and often angry with God. Why? Why me? Why now? Why not someone else? Those are the moments when a secure faith can be of great value. That doesn’t mean that we have all the answers, or ever will. However, being able to trust that God does have all the answers goes a long way. Furthermore, there is comfort in an assurance that, even in the worst case scenario, the outcome of your situation still offers a happy ending ... or rather beginning. Faith allows us to trust that things which are out of our control are still be in the hands of one who is able to make them work out for the best. That’s what faith is, a willingness to trust that which we don’t fully understand. If you’re there right now, or know someone else who is, rest assured that God is there with you. He is a friend to the broken hearted and never abandons those who call upon His name, even when it feels like it at times. You can trust in His strength to carry you through the darkness.

Through the Darkness
When every answer brings a question
When each note of joy goes sour
When we feel as though life is unfair
Doubting God’s wisdom and His power
When it seems the hand He’s dealt us
Could not be a hand He’d give
We may resent the life we have
And the one we’re called to live
Yet, the Lord has never promised
That my life should perfect be
He only said He’d give the strength
To stand as life would challenge me
If we keep our eyes upon
The Lord throughout each day
If we cling to Him and to His word
He will show us the narrow way
Though it be strewn with obstacles
Though it be fraught with care
If I keep my eyes upon the Lord
I know that He shall meet me there
To guide me through the hours dark
When I can’t seem to find God’s will
Even when it makes no sense to me
I must obey and trust Him still
By Frank Carpenter ©