Abandonment

Sharon is a final year college student. Her mother and father are divorced. She lives with her mother who works two jobs. Her father rarely visits. Sharon carries the heavy burden of loneliness and a sense of abandonment on her shoulders and in her heart. Sharon’s experience is in no way an exception to reality.

Jesus was hailed a deliverer when he entered Jerusalem. This affirmation was later dramatically changed to a demand for his crucifixion when the folks realized that their hopes were dashed and dreams shattered. Jesus turns out to be a disappointment.

Jesus dies on the cross in complete isolation. He is deserted by his disciples. The crowds, religious leaders and soldiers insult him. Those who were crucified with him hurled taunts. Jesus finally expresses his misery with the feeling of being abandoned by God.

But with the tearing of the curtain in the temple from top to bottom, abandonment does not have the last word in God’s story. Life with God still shines forth. God still continues to walk with, support and encourage us in our darkest moments. This is where our comfort and confidence rest when life gets really dreary.

Dear God, help us to know your abiding presence when the burdens of life make us feel we are all alone. Amen. — MP