In the crushing. In the breaking. In the winnowing and the stretching. Here in the dark valley. The dry desert. The raging storm and the deep waters. This is where your senses are heightened. Be still and know me. This is the high calling. To journey through suffering for me. To endure with gladness and hope when there is no end in sight to the struggle. When the battle persists. This is where precious stone is fashioned, priceless pearl is formed, and new wine is made. This is the moulding. I am the potter. You are the clay. This is the holy road you must travel if you are to become the one I have chosen to bring honour and glory to my name. I am with you. I love you. You are mine and I will strengthen you and uphold you. Though the path is narrow and the way is steep, you will travel with a lightness in your step and a deep and enduring joy. Perseverance will mark you and grace will be your song. You will sleep in perfect peace and mercy will touch your face with each new day. I am at your side forever. Be strong.
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
Matthew 16:24
Ask God:
What are you teaching me through this hardship?
Prayer:
Strengthen me for the battle.
© 2021 by Ruth O’Reilly-Smith
