Burden of the Grave

Chapter 10 from Max Lucado’s book “Traveling Light” – I Will Lead You Home

“yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 – NKJV

Have you ever been on a pilgrimage? An adventure, a big move, a long and winding road that takes you places you’ve never been. I see the journey of grief as a pilgrimage. The road is long, sometimes surrounded by empty spaces, vacant spaces, road blocks at every turn. Mirages, if you will, that have you mesmerized by their unyielding draw.

Well the grief journey is much like that description. So many times I’ve fought the long and winding road. Dodged multiple road blocks, stifled by barricades that kept me from moving forward. Wondering if I will ever make it through to my final destination. Home. Not my Heavenly home, but when I say home I mean – who I am – finding my purpose. Understanding how God made me. Different, unique and beloved.

God has been my anchor through it all. The time when sometimes I’m unaware of His presence but knowing He has been there is comforting enough. His guidance through the murky waters of life is a treasure I’ll forever be grateful for.

God has taken me to the top, well maybe close to the top, through more valleys than I can share. But in relationship to grief, it has been that “scarred ravine”, as Lucado describes it so eloquently, that God has revealed himself so very dearly to me. It s the little “pot holes” of life that trip me up. When I forget to call on God for help, to lead me out and give me strength.

“For what the shepherd does with the flock, our Shepherd will do with us. He will lead us to the high country. When the pasture is bare down here, God will lead us up there. He will guide us through the gate, out of the flatlands, and up the path of the mountain.” – Max Lucado, page 82

Lucado writes, “David’s message is subtle and cruicial” “You are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me”. Don’t face death without God. Don’t even speak of death without speaking to God. He and He alone can guide you through the valley….only God knows the way to get you home. Committed to getting you home.”

Scriptures to help you see that message even clearer:

I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go – Gen 28:15 NIV

As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you” – Josh 1:5 NIV

When you pass through the waters, I will be with  you. – Isa. 43:2 NIV

In this chapter, Lucado is speaking more to our own death, but I am saying it also applies to experiencing the death of a loved one, such as my dear sweet Brittany. Oh how I miss writing her name…..

Until  next time,

M