When unspeakable tragedy shatters people's lives, they search for answers. Recently, a mother who had lost a teenager said to me, "I can't figure it out. I don't know if I can believe anymore. I try, but God doesn't make sense to me. What does it all mean?" There are no easy answers to such big concerns. But for those who have trusted Christ, there is hope - whether we are basking in blessings or grinding through grief.
Peter spells this out in his first letter. In glowing terms, he praises God for our "new birth into a living hope" (1 Peter 1:3) through our salvation. That hope can bring joy even in the middle of tragedy. He also assures us of the permanence of this hope (v. 4). He then tells us of the heart-breaking reality that we may "suffer grief in all kinds of trials" (v. 6). Those who have suffered loss turn hopeful hearts toward Peter's next words: These come so that your faith "may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed" (v. 7).
Trials - seemingly random and inexplicable - can be seen differently in the light of these words. In the midst of tragedy, the power and beauty of our salvation can shine through because of our great Savior. And that may be just enough light to get a troubled person through another day. The light of salvation shines clearly even in the darkest night.
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