“I didn’t know where you were.”

Today’s scripture: Matthew 27:45-56 (NRSV) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?

My thoughts (Tammy Mills):

It’s 3:31 am and I’m sleeping soundly next to my love when a shriek startles me awake. I jump from my bed, stumble over shoes and head in the direction of the shriek. It seems to be coming from my baby boy’s room.

I barrel through his door, stubbing my toe on his latest farm implement. I get to his bed and look down at him. I fully expect to see him writhing in pain, the shriek was that intense. Instead I find him smiling up at me. I look at him and in astonishment, I ask him, “Dude, what’s wrong?” To which he replies, “I didn’t know where you were.”

I guess my little man felt forsaken. Today we find Jesus feeling forsaken. He cries out, wondering where God has gone. I know there have been times in my life when I felt forsaken, even by God. It brings me a measure of peace, in those times, to know that Jesus understands what that feels like.

Thought for the day: Have you ever felt like you just don’t know where God is? Know that you aren’t alone. We all go through those times. Hang on. Cry out. So far, for me at least, God has always come running — even if there were obstacles in the way!

We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.