I've been a singer for as long as I can remember, and to me, the two best parts of any concert are the bursts of utter silence before and after each piece. The world stands still in those moments, the air electrified with awe or anticipation, as we teeter at the top of the hill or breath a silent sigh of relief at the bottom. These moments are fleeting, but without them the whole thing is meaningless. If there's no silence, how are we supposed to appreciate sound?
Sometimes life feels like a period of silence, whatever that may be for you. It could be a mundane time where life feels dry, it could be a time when God feels silent, or it could even be a time of suffering when joy feels distant. And it's important to be present in these times and completely ok to spend time with our feelings, but it's comforting to know that these are also the best times to take heart. Some of the deepest joy I have ever felt came after times that didn't feel quite so joyful. I know what it feels like to want a perfectly happy life all the time, but what would there be to look forward to?
It reminds me of a quote from Anne Frank that I use from time to time: "Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness." The idea is not that if there's light there won't be any darkness, but it shows so beautifully how light cannot exist without some darkness. God does not promise us a life completely void of darkness, but He does promise us a life in the Light. The world is dark right now, but still He reminds us He has already overcome the world. When the darkness starts to close in, take comfort that you are already living in the Light, which is made perfect in darkness.
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
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Thoughts: January 2021
SpiritualA daily thought for the month of January, inspired by simple truths and fueled by grace and peace.
