What must have been Christ's darkest hour, when in brokenness, total surrender and resignation He declared, "Into thy hand I commend my spirit," turned out to be His greatest moment of victory - for it was through His death that the ultimate sacrifice was made for our salvation.
Jesus isn't only our sacrifice, but is also a Wonderful Counselor (Isa 9: 6). The writer of Hebrews tells us that "we have not an High Priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin," (Heb 4: 15). Earlier in the book of Hebrews we read, "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted," (2: 18).
Similarly, it is often in the state of our brokenness that we are most capable of ministering effectively to others (even when we are broken as a result of our own waywardness). The vicissitudes of David's troubles - both self-inflicted (Bathsheba), and those caused by his enemies (Saul) - have dictated the many Psalms that mean so much to so many of us today.
Sometimes it is beyond words to articulate special messages of hope and solidarity. The communication of how well we understand the dark path one is traveling is sometimes conveyed in just a look, a gently firm squeeze, a hug, or even a groan. And in one simple act, many times without even a single word, one knows that he/she is not alone.
Father, God, You have been a constant stay, our never failing refuge. Thank you for the struggles we faced, and that You have brought us through. Help us to extend Your grace to others by being there for them when they face their crucibles. Help us never to forget that You will never leave, nor forsake us, and to be contented to commit our all to You. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.
This reading is based on Psalm 31. To read and/or listen to Psalm 31 and to read other related blogs, please click here.
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