Even Though

On the horizon of our life, we will see both joy and pain. We will see a variety of heartache and sorrow as well as a great deal of happiness and love. Sometimes, like in the instance of sexual abuse survivors, it seems as if we will only ever be accustomed to experience the hardness of the world.

My life lately, after an important person passed away, has tasted the bitterness of this temporary life. I have ached. I have worried. But despite it all, I have had joy.

In the small moments, the cool breeze, the embrace of a three year old, the kind words from a husband, the way the baby fits perfectly in the crook of your arm as you sway him to sleep. In the smallness is the reminder of God’s finale promise (no tears, no pain).

Even though there is pain in this world, even though my loved one passed away, your diagnosis is terminal, someone breaks your trust, people let us down, there is hope.

Jesus defeated sin and death with the promise of new life, freedom, forgiveness and reconciliation. It’s simple- look to Him.

Having joy in a heartbreaking situation is foreign to me. But I have this joy because of Christ. When the Scriptures say, He gives “peace that passes all understanding,” THIS is what it’s talking about. It seems impossible to have a reason for happiness in the midst of our Job-like trials but I assure you there is a reason to celebrate, a reason to rejoice.

It’s through the supernatural power of Christ that after a life of abuse, financial calamity, sins consequences, and losses I am able to smile, sing, lift up my hands and praise God for His works and wonders!

I’m praying for you, sister. Praying you experience His peace, sing praises through your sorrow, rejoice in the suffering, and count your trials to be joy.