Happy Friday, my fellow anime lovers!
I hope you’ve had a fabulous week! But even if you haven’t, I want to encourage you with the thought that in any abyss, there is hope. And that’s the topic for today: We encounter “abysses”—periods of overwhelming challenge, profound uncertainty, or deep grief—but they don’t last forever. When the path ahead is obscured, the dangers feel immense, and the thought of returning to “normal” seems impossible, what can we do? How do we navigate these terrifying, transformative depths when our very being feels stretched to its limits?
Even 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 (ESV)
The world of Made in Abyss captivates viewers with its breathtaking beauty and terrifying depths. The series follows the child Riko as she and her boy-like robot Reg go in search of her missing mother in the Abyss, a massive pit that leads to world after world, each more dangerous and sinister than the last. The Abyss itself is a metaphor for the unknown, a vast chasm promising unimaginable wonders and irreversible curses. Those who descend are fundamentally changed, often scarred, but sometimes also blessed by profound insights or unique abilities.
Just as the “Curse of the Abyss” transforms those who brave its descent, our life's deepest trials inevitably change us, too. The Bible assures us that suffering is not in vain. In these valleys, God is not a distant observer; He is our Shepherd, walking with us (Psalms 23). His rod offers protection and gentle correction, guiding us away from peril. His staff provides comfort and draws us close when we falter. The transformation we experience in the abyss, though painful, is ultimately a process of spiritual refinement, deepening our trust and revealing a hope that is unshakable.
So, as you face your own personal abyss—be it a daunting decision, a season of loss, or a profound shift in your life's landscape—remember that you are not alone. God has descended with you into the depths. Embrace the journey with courageous faith, knowing that even the “curses" of your trials can lead to unexpected blessings. Trust His presence, lean on His strength, and allow the pressures of the abyss to forge a more resilient, hopeful, and deeply transformed you.
Weekly Mission: This week, identify one “abyss” you are currently facing or that is on the horizon. Each day, take a moment to acknowledge God's presence with you in that challenge, actively trusting that He is comforting you and will guide you through it. Reflect on one way this trial might be transforming you for the better.
Memory Verse: “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope…” - Romans 5:3-4 (ESV)
BtT in Review
Anime Expo is in full swing! Can’t go? We've got you covered, fam, as T.R. shares his thoughts about the convention and Ryan posts photos from it. Visit our master post over the next few days for updates and check out Thursday’s coverage and photos!
The summer anime season has also started! Return to our master post over the coming couple of weeks to see bits and pieces from all our fuller views, plus screencaps, streaming links, and more! Here’s what we’ve covered so far—with a bunch more scheduled to drop today!
We dropped our reviews for a bunch of new manga and light novel releases this week, including those for Nue’s Exorcist, Tsumiki Ogami’s Not-So-Ordinary Life, and two Sword Art Online spin-offs!
Artists showcase their favorite characters each Fanart Friday. Last Friday, that meant Misa x Light from Death Note!
Happy Independence Day, friends, and have a safe and happy weekend! See you next week!
Thank you for the encouragement 🤍