Charles Whittlesey was a hero’s hero. Leader of the so-called “Lost
Battalion” in World War I, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery
when his unit was trapped behind enemy lines. When the Tomb of the Unknown
Soldier was dedicated, Charles was chosen to serve as pallbearer for the first
soldier laid to rest there. Two weeks later, it is presumed that he ended his
own life by stepping off a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean.
Like Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-7), Charles was publicly strong, but in the
quiet, post-public moments, his feelings of despair set in. People today
frequently face situations bigger than they can handle. Sometimes it’s
temporary despair brought on by fatigue, as in Elijah’s case. He had been part
of a great victory over the prophets of Baal (18:20-40), but then he feared for
his life and ran into the wilderness (19:1-3). But often, it’s more than
despair and it’s more than temporary. That’s why it is imperative that we talk
about depression openly and compassionately.
God offers His presence to us in life’s darkest moments, which enables
us, in turn, to be His presence to the hurting. Crying out for help—from others
and from God—may be the strongest moment of our lives.
Hope comes with help from God and others. (RBC)
