Earthquakes are rare in Oklahoma. Living here, we are used to the threat of hail and tornadoes, but a 5.8-magnitude earthquake is not part of our daily life. While working on my computer one evening, I heard a distant rumble that sounded like a train. Suddenly and unexpectedly, the house began to shake. I grabbed my phone and ran outside with my daughter and husband.
As we stood outside, I watched the reactions of my neighbors. They stood stunned, stunned by the devastation caused by the earthquake. They were clearly unprepared and had no idea how to handle the aftermath to ensure everyone's safety. The unpredictability of the event left us all vulnerable and disoriented.
For Christians, experiencing pain, loss, and death is like an earthquake that strikes suddenly. These events often catch us off guard and unprepared, leaving us paralyzed, motionless, and unsure of what to do next. Suppose we don't talk about the actual experience of pain in the Christian life in Sunday school, sermons, and dinner table discussions. In that case, we may raise a generation that believes such difficulties are rare and will never be experienced. This misconception makes them vulnerable to spiritual attacks when these inevitable painful events occur.
Hurting people often make us uncomfortable. It takes a lot of courage to sit with those suffering and share their pain and struggles. It requires energy, effort, and a willingness to help them carry their burdens. However, when we do this, we provide meaningful help to their wounded hearts and gain valuable insights and lessons for our journeys.
I share my story, hoping others can find comfort in grief and pain. Not everyone will experience the loss of a child, but everyone will experience trials, temptations, and moments of doubt.
In times of grief, pain, and suffering, turning to Jesus can provide the comfort and strength needed to get through the darkest times. Christians must create space in personal conversations and church communities to discuss pain and suffering. By doing so, we prepare ourselves and others to face life's inevitable challenges with faith and resilience.
Ultimately, our willingness to reach out and support those suffering not only helps them, but it also deepens our spiritual journey. It reminds us to lean on Jesus and His promises and affirms that He is our safe haven in every storm.
