Beauty for Ashes

Prelude: I was rummaging through old journal entries and found this from one of those dark night experiences. Reminiscing has some value, of course.  But the greater lesson here is that bad things don’t always stay bad.  Each of us experiences valleys, storms, and trials in this life.  Hold on!  There are mountains, sunshine and relief in this life, too! - love and peace, M
 
This was her time, this was her dance.
She lived every moment, left nothing to chance.
 
I listen to the words of the song on the radio 11 years after the Columbine shooting and still marvel at the faith of the high school girl who gained her life by losing it.  For me, Cassie Bernall’s testimony has not lost its power over a decade.  (2017 update: Yes, I am aware of the controversy, but nevertheless…)
 
I praise God for her and pray for her family every time I hear the song.  Now, sitting here amidst the pieces of my own seemingly broken life, I also think of my oldest daughter.  No, she did not die as a witness for Christ like Cassie did. Rather, she wondered far from our family - and herself - due to drug addiction. 
 
The words of the song are a stinging realization of the contrast between a beautiful tragedy and an ugly mess.  One life inspired a nation.  Another… well, as a mom, my heart breaks.
 
A Scripture floats into my mind.  Ephesians 2:10- For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 
 
Amen.  I immediately cancel my pity party and praise God for His faithfulness.  The line between “beautiful tragedy” and “ugly mess” blurs.  The workings and process of His plan may not always look pretty (or make a lot of sense) to us.  In fact, our journey through this life is guaranteed to contain some pain. (John 16:33) There is evil in the world. We make bad choices. Other people make bad choices. Brokenness happens.
 
Healing happens.
 
If you think about it, throughout history beauty has often been born from the ashes of tragedy.  God knows what He’s doing and He has the ability to see His plan through. Our crime scene tape and broken hearts must not stop us from seeing life from an eternal perspective.  Cassie did.  I believe that my daughter will, as well. One day, hopefully soon.
 
 
If you are struggling, reach out for help. This motley world needs your motley self! Call a friend, pastor, mental health provider or The National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
​
God provides for those who grieve a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.- Isaiah 61:3
 
 
Song Credit
This is Your Time
Lyrics by Wes King
Performed by Michael W. Smith
 
Photo credit: https://pixabay.com