Peace in the Dark, Author Q&A with Jessica Herberger 

Hello friends,

The post-Christmas and post-New Year frenzy is dying down, and we come to you with our first author interview of 2024. It is one you do NOT want to miss.

If you are new here, welcome. If there are two things I want you to know about us it’s that we love Jesus with a burning passion, and we love featuring thought-provoking and unique perspectives that help you sharpen your mind and deepen your relationship with God as you journey through whatever you face, like a warrior. You are not alone!

I am so exited to share with you this interview of MW in conversation with Jessica Herberger about her new book, Peace in the Dark: Faithful Practices as We Wait for the Light (release date of January 30, 2024). This book is particularly impressive as it focuses on an often overlooked period in scripture before the resurrection– Holy Saturday.

In our interview, Jessica speaks to us about how every moment matters, disappointment and changing our pace. Thank you, Jessica, for sharing with us. We are so honored.

You can get your copy of Peace in the Dark on Amazon (but rumor has it, it is currently sold out and will be restocked soon). So, we have included The Bookshop link here. When you order, don’t forget to redeem your bonus goodies!

Modern Witnesses (“MW”): Congratulations on your new book, Peace in the Dark: Faithful Practices as We Wait for the Light, What inspired your new book and project?

Jessica Herberger (“JH”): Thank you! I have been studying the days of Holy Week for a few years now and as the time to delve into Saturday approached I wasn’t sure what direction the corresponding book would take. There has always been such a mystery about those in-between hours. Really unpacking what was happening and how it applies to our every day lives is the inspiration behind writing Peace in the Dark.

MW: Why did you feel it was important to focus on Holy Saturday, and what has this reflection meant to you?

JH: I believe that there is nothing accidental in Holy Week. Therefore, if every moment matters, and I believe that it does, we must come to a deeper understanding of Holy Saturday. A day that at first glance seems empty and dark is actually brimming with wisdom and practices that we need today.

“A day that at first glance seems empty and dark is actually brimming with wisdom and practices that we need today.”

MW: Does your family have any special traditions or rituals around Easter or the time leading up to it?

JH: I love Lent as a season. The slower, quieter pace of our home allows us space for more reflection. We also love our Last Supper meal that we have as a family where we walk through what happened in the Upper Room.

MW: In the Easter story, we see a lot of confusion and also disappointment. What has been the biggest lesson you have taken away from a disappointment?

JH: The biggest lesson I have learned is that God isn’t done even when it seems dark. He works for our good and does so without ceasing. And while we wait in our disappointment there is a beautiful life for us to live.

“And while we wait in our disappointment there is a beautiful life for us to live.”

MW: What are you currently reading (and what has it taught you?):

JH: I am currently reading War and Peace, just one chapter a day for the entire year. I am a very fast reader so adopting this slower pace has been a bit of challenge but such a gift. Learning to notice small details and keep track of all the characters has been particularly impactful. The same can be said for how we live our lives-noticing people and looking for details that we might miss is a good way to love the world around us.

MW: What are your top three essentials (stuff you can’t leave the house without):

JH: Water, a hardback notebook, something to read.

MW: Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong:

JH: Pray. Develop a really healthy and robust prayer life.

Pay attention. Become a noticer of what God is doing around you. So many people can miss it. But once you develop the habit of noticing you will be amazed at not just who He is but what He is doing right where you are.

Welcome scripture with new eyes every time you encounter the Word. I am always amazed at the new things God reveals. We must be willing to look at everything anew, every time.

MW: I believe you are from Upstate NY. What is a must-see spot in the region?

JH: Yes, I live outside of Albany, but the must see for me is the Adirondack Mountains. You can read a lot about the Adirondacks in Peace in the Dark as I share many stories from our cabin up north. It is a really special and beautiful place.

MW: What does your morning routine consist of? 

JH: We have a busy house so there is not so much a routine as there are the things that must happen every morning. Coffee, reading, prayer and a check in with my husband.

MW: What is on your nightstand?

JH: My favorite new addition is my Loftie alarm (I am obsessed). I also have a stack of parenting books that I reference often, a vintage pink milkglass bowl for jewelry and my favorite red currant candle.

MW: If you had to define Christianity in a sentence, it would be:

JH: Christianity is the beautiful, radical belief that God loves us so much He made His home with us, Jesus Christ died for us and Holy Spirit lives in us so that we may know Him and bless the world.

Make sure to pick up Peace in the Dark + the order bonuses. Also, make sure to share. Friends don’t let friends miss out on the good stuff.

About Jessica:

JESSICA HERBERGER is a writer and Bible teacher who delights in connecting faith, history, and human flourishing. She is the author of Break Bread Together and Life Surrendered and host of an online community, The Table. She is also cofounder of the women’s ministry Seasons Northeast. Through her writing and speaking, Jessica encourages others to pursue a deeply formed spiritual life, grow in community, and love others well. Jessica and her husband, Josh, live in upstate New York with their three kids, where she can be found surrounded by books and music with her pup Winston always at her feet.

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XX