A good friend of mine has a collection of rocks from Whidbey Island. Each rock has a dark side and a light side, with a distinct demarcation line between the two. On one side, she has written considerable sorrow… and on the other, considerable joy…
I find this to be an accurate summation of life. This world holds considerable sorrow; and it also holds considerable joy. Community is one way I have learned to hold onto both and continue moving forward on the journey God has for me. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 4:12,
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
When I’m sinking into considerable sorrow, I call a Christian friend who listens well and prays with me. Sometimes that’s all I need to begin also seeing the considerable joy in my life. And sometimes, it’s enough just to cry with someone who hears me, sees me, and understands.
That’s something we can do with Jesus; He’s actually better at understanding us than anyone else is. He knows what considerable sorrow feels like … He went through it for you and me! Why did He do that? Hebrews 12:1&2 tells us why.
… let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Jesus endured the most intense suffering because He knew it would bring joy, and that joy was you knowing Him and receiving the love He has for you! That love is so far beyond anything you and I have experienced in this life … and it promises to one day wipe away every tear we shed.
Pray with me: Dear Lord, thank you for being with me when I feel considerable sorrow. This is what I’m sad about today (tell Him). And thank you for giving me a reason to praise today—your love for me and your power to make all things new. Amen.
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