April 10
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me; you were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Philippians 4:10
We can feel so forgotten about, so alone in our suffering during difficult times. But, how many times do we keep what we are going through to ourselves in an effort not burden others with our problems? How many times do we remove ourselves and withdraw from social obligations during difficult times, in a misguided effort to regain our strength? As a result we can have moments of loneliness even when surrounded by loved ones; and as the self-imposed isolation progresses, we are left feeling more on our own without help, and less cared about - locked out of life. How can those who care about us demonstrate their compassion if we are not present to them or willing to share all that we are? If no opportunity is given our loved ones and friends to share in our lives, there can be no sharing of concern, of empathy, of love. We cannot expect others to read our minds; and just maybe we have even inadvertently failed those around us, by not allowing them the opportunity to demonstrate their love and empathy, to provide the healing care that only they can bring.
It sounds in this Scripture passage that Paul must have felt quite alone as he wrote this book in prison, removed from his loved ones, unable to communicate with them and not in a position to change any of it! Yet underlying all, we know from his writings that he believed God was with him always. But he needed the human touch; he needed to feel God’s presence through his friends and loved ones. Once the word pierced that cell wall of the deep love Christ’s followers had for him, his spirit rejoiced; his courage strengthened. Like Paul, in faith we know that we too are never totally alone.
The words of family and friends, writers and musicians have a way of touching us, of renewing our spirits, smoothing our wrinkled state of mind and bringing us back to the reality of life – that love is all. How often have we been told that we were being prayed for just at a time when we needed it most? What a blessing! Like beams of light shining through every cell and atom in creation, love and concern fills every part with rejoicing.
God of love, keep us sensitive to the needs of others; especially the lonely, the ill and infirm, and those who find it difficult to share their burdens. May they feel your love in all we do.
Copyright© 2013 Kathleen A. Matson