I made a very dear and eternal friend in Maine, who taught me many precious things, and continues to impact how I think, feel, and view my challenges. He has and is experiencing pain and trials incomprehensible to a spoiled princess like me. Despite trying to do the right thing, he had almost all that he loved,worked for, and cared about... stripped from him by the selfish pursuits of the person who was supposed to be his most loyal allay. He is haunted and mocked daily by this loss and betrayal. Yet, he has taken that bitter cup without bitterness but has accepted it with astounding grace, humility, and obedience.
By today's societal norms, he would be validated and even commended for any hate and revenge... but I have seen in him the application of Christ's teaching, "pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you". I have been deeply touched to see how he worries over and even prays for his transgressor. I wonder if I would/could do the same if it were me.
His endurance and capacity to see things so black and white- yes... to still even see the white- the truth, the good, and God's love and mercy untainted by bitterness and pain... Astounds me. I was struggling to move forward with faith and courage in certain aspects of my life... and here is one with much greater reason for doubt and hesitation and yet is pressing forward with surety and humility. He showed me what it is to have "steadfast faith in Christ." He shared his yoke with Christ... and because he has continued to move forward... he is able to lift others and pointing them towards Christ- I being one of them. I experienced this in my own moment of languish. I am grateful for this preservering angel sent to me at the right time. This is a real man.
As I face my own unique challenges... can I... with far lesser trials, excuses, and obstacles... be a real woman? Will I exercise such steadfastness in Christ?
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