February 15: Every Saint experienced the Dark Night
I can’t seem to resist thinking of those who make such a big deal about periods of aridity as being somewhat lacking in humility. Teresa of Avila
Gregg’s Reflection
It is reassuring to know that every saint, every spiritual giant, has walked through the dark night. God’s presence is not always a felt experience. In fact, sometimes God intentionally withdraws that felt presence — not out of neglect, but out of love.
We can easily make an idol out of consolations, the sweetness of prayer, or the certainty of God’s nearness. When we start to depend on these more than on God, they lose their freedom-giving power. The dark night weans us from these attachments, inviting us into a deeper relationship where God’s presence is trusted even when unseen.
In those times, the saints teach us to watch for small glimpses of light in the darkness — fleeting moments of peace, a word of encouragement, a sense of being upheld. These flashes of light are not just comforts; they are signs of the hidden but real presence of God, and reminders that darkness will not have the final word.
Scripture
The Lord has said that he would reside in thick darkness.
2 Chronicles 6:1
When you hide your face they are terrified.
Psalm 104:29
Ancient Quotes
Do not fear if for a little while he turned his face away from you… He is absent that he may be desired more, that being desired he may be sought more eagerly, that having been sought for he may at last be found with greater thankfulness.
Guido II, The Ladder of Monks, trans. Colledge, p. 77
I can’t seem to resist thinking of those who make such a big deal about periods of aridity as being somewhat lacking in humility.
Teresa of Avila, Interior Castle, trans. Mirabai Starr, p. 72
Modern Quotes
People who have come to know the joy of God do not deny the darkness, but they choose not to live in it… They point each other to flashes of light here and there, and remind each other that they reveal the hidden but real presence of God.
Henri Nouwen, Nouwen Society Daily Devotional, 11/3/20
Journaling Prompts
- How does it encourage you to know saints have walked through dark nights?
- What saints or spiritual mentors give you courage in those times?
- How might your own dark night be shaping you for deeper service?
- Stars, comets, and the Northern Lights are invisible in daylight. How have you found beauty in darkness?
- What lessons have you learned from times of spiritual aridity?
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 7 Reflection: Dark Night / Cloud of Unknowing