GLOOM AND GLORY

Gloom and Glory

Anne Adams

“Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power …” 

(Hebrews 1:3a KJV).

After the Maundy Thursday service, the lights were dimmed, and we all silently filed out – fully aware that since the next day was Good Friday, the church was going into mourning. 

Those of us in the choir hung up our robes in a nearby room, and as we left, I noticed a placard posted on a closed door across the hall. 

It read: “Please do not enter. Lilies are blooming for Easter.”

By Sunday morning they had! 

Lining the altar rail, their white bell blossoms flaring open, the lilies were blooming because they’d been briefly shut up in the dark room. 

First darkness, then with the light came the glorious result.

Following Jesus’ death, the disciples brooded in fear while God worked out his plans for the blessed brightness of the resurrection.

It’s sometimes the same with me as I wallow in dark uncertainty over my struggles, unsure of when – if ever – I will feel the light of his presence. 

Yet I know while I’m struggling in darkness, at the right time God will break the gloom to reveal his glorious purposes.

For sometimes there must be gloom before there can be glory.

Anne lives in Texas and writes an historical column for the local paper. She has published one book and has appeared in Christian and secular publications for forty years. Contact