People often ask me “How am I doing?” Sometimes I think that they are half expecting me to fall apart right in front of them. Sometimes I do and other times I feel guilty that I don’t fall apart. I appreciate their concern. Can’t I have joy in the midst of pain?
Our speaker at church this last Sunday brought up some interesting points about the birth of Christ. Since Mary was pregnant Joseph could have easily had her put to death or divorced her. He had much to gain–he could keep the dowry paid for her and get the bride price back. This would dismiss him of any responsibility or guilt. If he stayed with her it could appear the child was his. After the angel of the Lord came to Joseph to confirm that Mary was indeed pregnant by the Holy Spirit Joseph went ahead and took Mary as his wife. I’m sure Joseph experienced some ridicule, false assumptions, talking behind his back causing him pain. Yet I would guess he experienced joy in marrying Mary and the birth of Jesus. Now that is character.
The young couple were to name the baby Jesus, Immanuel, meaning Christ with us. When he took on the form of a lowly baby he became fully human as well as remaining fully God. While on earth he had similar experiences and feelings that we do. That is comforting to me knowing God knows and understands what I am going through and feeling. Christ has embraced the pain with me. I share in His sufferings. Romans 8:17 says, “Now if we are children (of God), then we are heirs–heirs of God ad co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” I rest in the promise that I will one day join Neal in Heaven and share in God’s glory. That gives me joy.
Without Christ I don’t know how I would get through this journey. I have good days and some sad days yet in the midst of the pain I can have joy that only comes from Christ. My prayer for you is that you would know Christ in a personal way this season to experience His love, joy, comfort and peace in the midst of pain.
Immanuel, God with us!
On the journey,
Trish