I am often asked how we 'do this' with all we have been through over the past few years with Vern's layoff, James' medical issues, this move just following a leukemia diagnosis with James. The short answer is: we believe God is sovereign and holy. We are keenly aware that we have it easy compared with what we deserve. God is merciful to us and has given us so much better than we deserve.
Of course, in our world and culture today that doesn't make any sense to very many people. Not even Christians. And I am terrible when it comes to explaining this to folks. However, when I see a good answer, I know it. My mind dances with excitement, saying, "Yeah! THAT!" I found an article online today that was a "Yeah! THAT!" article for me. John Piper writing about the tragedy in Minneapolis. I hope you'll take a few minutes to read it here. And know that whatever the tragedy is you are enduring in your life at this moment fits in, big or small.
I find tremendous comfort in that. I hope you will to.
Love, Stephanie
Friday, August 3, 2007
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Amen. Thanks for the reminder. When people say "I don't deserve this!" it's hard to swallow the words that pop into my mind, which is "Yes, you are right. You don't deserve this. You deserve eternal suffering and punishment. Praise the Lord you have been spared!" That sounds so heartless, but it is true for those of us who are looking forward to heaven. This life is only the first page of the real story. Light and momentary afflictions when you compare to what it might have been without Jesus.
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