When I visited Norway a number of years ago we drove through the world’s longest tunnel, 24.5 km long. The first few kilometers where OK but after a while the journey became a bit unnerving. For too long time it just seemed that there would be no light at the end of the tunnel after all. In my many years of youth ministry I’ve met countless people who feel that way about their lives.
In reality at times we are all tempted to give up for some reason or another: we’ve been hurt in relationships, disappointed with ourselves because of the way we dealt with a situation, experienced recurring health problems or even failed in our struggle with sin. At those moment we sink into a moment or even a season of disappointment and at times even despair.
It is especially at these times that rather than sink into self-pity or despair, we need to turn to God. I know some people who feel that it isn’t right to turn to the Lord when things are going wrong. Yet often it is through these difficult times that He gets our attention.
Go the the Lord and tell Him ‘Lord I’m your leper begging for healing (Mark 1:41-44), I’m Peter sinking in the water (Matthew 14:25-33), I’m the prodigal son who wants to return home (luke 15:12-32), I’m the widow of Nain suffering a loss (Luke 7:11-17), I’m the Samaritan woman thirsty for life (John 4:13-26), I’m the paralytic finding it difficult to walk (Matthew 9:1-8), I’m the blind man needing to see the light (Luke 18:35-43) … your light at the end of my tunnel.
Jesus never turned any of these people away, He certainly won’t give up on you. So whatever your situation at the moment, don’t give up. There is light even at the end of the longest tunnel. If you need to, humble yourself and seek help from someone who can offer it. But most of all, turn to the Lord in prayer who tells us
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matt. 11:28-29
