# Consolation explained — Verses on Various Occasions

> Chapter companion for Verses on Various Occasions by John Henry Newman.

## What happens

The speaker finds comfort in Christ's reassurance 'It is I; be not afraid' amidst despair, fear, and sudden trials. The poem affirms trust in God's presence through life's challenges and looks forward to the resurrection with hope.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Doubt

The speaker battles gloom and fear, yet clings to Christ's promise.

### Suffering and Humility

Enduring sudden blows and fretful thoughts with humble trust.

### Time and Memory

Anticipation of the final judgment and resurrection.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The speaker who sinks in gloom and fear, seeking reassurance.

### Christ

The one who whispers comfort and comes to save at judgment.

### Lord

Addressed as the source of cheer and healing.

## Key lines

> When I sink down in gloom or fear, Hope blighted or delay'd, Thy whisper, Lord, my heart shall cheer, " 'Tis I; be not afraid!"

When I am overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety, and my hope seems ruined or postponed, your gentle reassurance, Lord, will comfort me: 'It is I; do not be afraid.'

_The core message of divine comfort in distress._

> And oh! when judgment's trumpet clear Awakes me from the grave, Still in its echo may I hear, " 'Tis Christ; He comes to save."

And when the clear trumpet of judgment calls me from death, may I still hear in its echo: 'It is Christ; He comes to save.'

_Hope in the resurrection and Christ's saving presence at the final judgment._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters/cvii-consolation
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/verses_on_various_occasions_se/chapters