Visible Grace

Yahweh, reveal to me the end of my life and the number of my days. Let me know how transitory I am. - Psalm 39:4

There are times in our lives when it seems that physical sickness is everywhere. Of course, the larger the group of acquaintances (Facebook?), the greater these occurrences seem. I once knew of at least seven people with cancer (or suffering the results of cancer) at one time. I did what I could to encourage them, but ultimately I think I was the one who was encouraged!

I am always humbled by the faith I witness in the lives of the "suffering." I am also reminded of the fleeting nature of our earthly existence. These folks might struggle with the possibility that their illnesses are serving God's purposes, but there can be no doubt that their steadfast faith reminds us all of God's eternal hope, assurance, and promise. God's grace is clearly seen through their difficulty.

In the same way, may God's grace always be seen through mine.

When seekers come to church, they usually know something's broken, but they are not sure there's hope for something better. - John Burke