Lent Day 2: Our light and momentary troubles

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV
A downpour, viewed from inside

Trouble depends on our viewpoint:

  • When we are ill, we may envy those with health. Or we may meet someone who is terminally ill and feel grateful that we are able to walk and eat.
  • When we lose our job, we may feel financially unstable. Or we may meet someone without a home and feel almost wealthy.
  • When we're moving from one thing to another, we may feel the stress of transition. Or we may look ahead with excitement because God has new plans for us.
  • When a family member dies or we experience other life-traumas, we may feel abandoned by God. Or good memories may fill our hearts with thanksgiving and trust: God is in control.

In the shadow of skyscrapers, rough living
Paul, writing after beatings, imprisonment, shipwrecks, and being ostracized by his peers, names his difficulties "light and momentary troubles." 

 That puts my challenges in perspective. Christ, who left heaven to live and die for us, will promises us the wisdom and strength to meet any difficulties in this life.

 More to think about:
*Boaz said to Ruth, “May you have a full reward from the Lord, under whose wings you have come for refuge!” Ruth 2:12 NEV

 *You are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God. Ephesians 2:19 ESV

 Moravian Prayer: We are all your people, Lord. Make our hearts rejoice in the triumphs of our brothers and sisters worldwide. Give us compassion for those whom we have not yet had the chance to meet. Let us no longer see barriers and divisions, but join together in community. Amen.

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