Today is a hard day. If not for you, then likely for someone you know.

Did you know that the Valley of the Shadow of Death is a real place? Should you visit there, you might leave thinking differently than the name (death) suggests.

My husband, Jason, my daughter, Hallie, and I recently visited the dark valley on a trip to Israel. It’s located between Jerusalem and Jericho.

It’s believed to have been the place where the Good Samaritan happened upon a man who’d been robbed and beaten. Robbers were known to have frequented the area.

The ground looks dry and unforgiving. It doesn't appear that much sunlight reaches it. But things grow as a testament to the presence and work of a higher power.

It’s not a place that many would consider putting on their top ten places to visit. Sometimes you just find yourself there.

After suffering a particularly difficult season this past year, my daughter stood at the cliff’s edge this past summer.

There was something beautiful about seeing her walk away.

There is strength to walk through the flood, fight the enemy, suffer the loss...

Remember that when you find yourself there, the valley isn’t a permanent lodging place. Instead, it’s a place we pass through. It’s a place where sufferers find themselves. As much so, it’s a place of rescue.

Don’t underestimate God’s ability or desire to create beauty in life’s dark places. We don’t walk in darkness alone.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10