I was watching something from a few years ago that reminded me of some of the loss we’ve had over the past few years and I asked the Lord how you ever really recover from loss. He answered, “What did the disciples do when Jesus was suddenly crucified?”
If anyone has ever suffered loss, confused, hurt and fear, it was the early followers of Jesus. They had given up everything to follow Jesus and for three years had been his constant companions until He was suddenly arrested, beaten and cruelly crucified as a criminal.
How did they recover from the horrific loss, trauma and confusion around the events of Jesus death?
The answer is, they went back to what they knew and the things they knew to be true. They spent time meeting and talking together and remembering everything Jesus had taught and shared with them.
The disciples also went back fishing together – it’s one of the things many of them were skilled at. Its here, after a night of fishing that Jesus found them. He prepared breakfast on the beach, and once again performed a fishing miracle in telling them to cast their nets on the other side till their boats overflowed with fish. These were all a reminder of all that Jesus had taught and previously done for them.
Jesus then takes the time to encourage and comfort his followers over a meal together, especially taking time to reassure Peter of his love and forgiveness for his betrayal. He then reinstated Peter as a leader and gave him fresh vision and purpose for the future. (John 21: 1- 25)
Loss of any kind can be scary, confusing and leave us wondering where on earth Jesus is? But what we can do after the initial shock of loss is:
Focus and lean on what you know is true. Take time to pray, spend time with Jesus, read the Bible, listen to and be around encouraging people, exercise, rest and remind yourself what you know of God’s character and goodness.
Go back to the last things you were sure of. Those things that you know are positive, helpful and give you a, “I know how to do this” feeling.
Jesus will find you in that safe place, just as he found the disciples meeting together in a house and then again as they were out fishing. It is in these familiar healthy places that Jesus encourages, comforts and gives us fresh vision. (John 20:19-21:1)
Regardless of how overwhelmed you may feel as a result of loss, Jesus will come. He doesn’t leave us brokenhearted and is faithful to His promises.
Today go back to what you know of God and the things which prosper your soul. Jesus will find you there, and in His presence, you will receive healing and fresh vision as He sets your feet once more on solid ground.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will fly up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be weary.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you don’t leave me broken hearted or a mess but will meet me at my point of need. Please help me trust who you are and your promises today and to keep doing the things I know to do until healing and fresh vision comes. In Jesus name Amen.
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