Beauty From Ashes

 

     We live in a fallen world. There is no way to get through our lives without suffering. At the ripe old age of 70, I have seen my share both in my own life and in the lives of loved ones, friends and acquaintances. Suffering often brings us to our knees. For me, finding Jesus came through a time of deep questioning and grief. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.

     Beauty and suffering, an oxymoron? Beauty rises from the depths of suffering. We’ll ponder that this week. Let’s think back through our past and imagine the lessons learned, the burdens shared, the wisdom found, within and beyond the times and seasons we believed we would not endure.

     Finding God, sitting with the dying, crying common tears, working out good through it all, is walking on holy ground. There is a richness through suffering, deep and indescribable. The Holy Spirit’s presence is often felt in ways seldom experienced at other times. We wouldn’t wish it on anyone and we pray we will not go through it again, but as we dig deeper, we see how God works through the worst of times to show His glory. Here is His promise from the words of Isaiah:

And provide for those who grieve in Zion-to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness a planting of the Lord for the display of His pleasure. Isaiah 61:3

     Hang on to these words if you are going through a tough time. God will provide the spiritual clothes to replace our black robes, to comfort us in our mourning and grief, to replace our feelings of despair. Is it time to put on the crown of beauty, the oil of joy, the garment of praise to our loving God?

Father,

We don’t understand, but You can work good through the worst of times on this earth. When our lives seem to be falling apart, when we have reached our limit, You reach down and offer a secure foundation, a deep joy and peace, and, finally, a heart that wants to praise You through it all.

In Jesus name,

Amen