Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. Psalm 23:4 GOD’s Word Translation
Recently we had friends die in a tragic car accident. The husband, wife and her sister were killed instantly in a head on collision. Heaviness of heart for the family is present and we lean on God’s abiding presence.
I offer you this prayerful reflection as the curtain of thoughts are pulled back on death. Adam is dialoguing with God on the pain of death which he feels for the first time.
ADAM – Reflecting on the death of Abel
Why?, It doesn’t even begin to touch the shock and disbelief I am feeling. God, you could have stopped it. I am so confused. I don’t even have the words to describe the ache which has settled over my heart.
That pain is like an anchor pulling me down into the depths of despair which I have never known before. It’s a weight that has settled on my chest making it hard to breathe. Where did this pain come from which I am feeling? Will it ever leave?
Shock, disbelief and anger are so intertwined, I have no idea how to corral them much less control them. I can’t believe it is true. Maybe tomorrow I will wake up and this day will be a dream and all things will return to normal? The sun rises in the morning revealing it was not a dream and more stuff will have to be dealt with as I move on.
You tell me that You will walk with me. At this point, I need help for the next step. My lack of control for the situation has created an uncertainty about all things. How can I keep moving forward?
My lip is quivering again. My eyes are red and the tears seem endless. A groan lays dormant like an active volcano ready to erupt at any moment. I can feel its tremors shaking my bones.
God, I know You are near by faith. I need You to make Your presence known as once before when You walked in the cool of the garden. Do not hide Yourself from me. A shadow of death has fallen over me. When will the light of Your presence bring its warmth again?
I’m in a miserable pit which feels like I will be stuck here forever. I need Your help.
As I walk, I will make the declaration of trust. By faith, I declare that You are with me. By faith, I declare that You are good even though I know that death is not good. You are for life and I receive Your life of peace over me. Though my weeping may last for many nights, You will restore the joy of my salvation – I declare that by faith and not how I feel.
You have never told me that it is wrong to bring my hurts, pain and confusion to You. So, I will keep coming, and after I speak, I will listen. Your words are life and light.
You know my frailty. You are gentle and will come to my aid as I have sought You. As I seek You, I know in my heart I will find You. To be honest, at this point, it is better if You find me. I don’t have much strength to seek, but I will keep on speaking Your truth to bring hope to the front of my mind once again.
Father God, I love you.
Death reminds us of the frailty of our humanity. We are not in control. Death will come to all of us…the question is the timing and how. To be remembered by God is the key. Not that we know about Him only, but that He knows we are His child. He will do all that He promised. This is the hope Jesus shared with His disciples as He was getting ready to physically depart. He will come to us again.
Speak life in your valley experience and let your emotions catch up.
Blessings Love y’all
Greg, This is beautiful, and so right for an occasion such as this! You have a wonderful gift of expression as you reach out to others. I am overwhelmed by this tragedy. May God’s love continue to bless you and your family. Much love to you!