At a recent gathering, I was disappointed to learn a friend was not joining us. She explained it was gloomy outside, and she felt gloomy. Though I was bummed not to see her, I understood her decision not to attend. Two days later, her word ‘gloomy’ came to mind. I flew back home from being away for a while. Where I left had dark skies, heavy clouds, and the chilly rain had been falling for two days. When I landed at home, it was even worse. Single digit temperature with a cold wind blowing the snow that had just begun to fall. ‘Gloomy’ can be challenging to overcome, especially when we feel it all around us.
On gloomy days, there’s nothing wrong with brewing tea or hot chocolate, reaching for a blanket, and sitting cozily with a book or a movie. That likely provides some welcome warmth and comfort. But when ‘gloomy’ reaches beyond just a bad weather day, our spirit requires something more. If we allow, discouragement and hopelessness can too easily accompany us and prevent our full trust in believing that the Lord is the one who is our constant companion—even in (especially in) the moments we may not recognize His presence. In those times we must, in faith, choose. Choose to look beyond the dark clouds of what’s happening around us and to seek the hope of God’s grace, strength, and peace. It is there waiting for us. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Even though we cannot always see from where we are, we know that above the dark clouds and gloomy storms are peaceful skies and soft clouds of comfort. We know that the sun will shine through again; that light overcomes darkness; and that hope dispels ‘gloom.’ Let us pray that we allow our spirit to always be nourished by God’s love and grace, so in faith we will choose to seek the hope that strengthens us.
Journeying to Grace 