Wow, God! (An Advent Journey)Sample

WOW, GOD. YOU ENDURED ALL MY PAIN.

Experience

I, of course, have heard of the current movement in society. I have read the articles and seen the news stories on TV. It is heartbreaking. This is a sinful world. It’s one thing when our own choices get us into trouble. Sometimes, though, the trouble finds us, and the hurt is caused by someone else. Sometimes the pain becomes shame.  

What I’m discovering is that God’s heart is broken over every sin. It’s what separates me from Him and makes me afraid to trust that He’s good. At least, that’s how it affects me, and that breaks His heart. What He wants for me is to let Him love me and trust His love for me. But He also understands the struggle. He’s been there. Jesus went through every shame I have. Every life has been touched by sin, including the sins of others. Jesus also. He was naked on a cross and teased and humiliated. He had things forced on his physical body that hurt. He did not want any of it. He asked to get out of it. He cried over the pain and the humiliation. He was then left to deal with it all. Alone. I don’t say this to be gruesome. I say this to let you know that God sees you. God loves you. God feels it with you.

Wow, God. You endured all my pain.

Respond

There is sin in this world that has touched your life. This shows up in you as shame, fear, and pain. Your circumstances are unique to you. God sees the specific pain of each one of us, even pain caused by anything that has been done to you.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  (Hebrews 12:3) He feels the pain you have. Jesus endured it all. You are not alone. Jesus can relate. He is Emmanuel, God with us.

Pray

God, my pain feels so unique to only me. Thank You for understanding how I feel because You have been there. Amen.