This saying has a few variations. Regardless of which one is used, it makes me cringe.
I know it can be true -- I know it can be helpful -- I know it can be comforting. I get that. The problem: it isn't always true, it isn't always helpful, and it isn't always comforting. It is too often a trite Christian saying, like many others.
Many things happen because people make choices, both bad and good ones. Some of them honor God. Some don't.
Terminal illness, tragic accidents, and natural disasters - they just happen. The reality is that we simply don't get to understand. No matter how much we want God's understanding or project our interpretations of God's purpose, we're limited by our human understanding.
While I know that God can use anything for good, it's rarely helpful to hear at the moment of greatest despair. When Jesus told us to love one another, I think he meant for us to be present - to listen - to care. It's hard to do.
I'm really proud of our facilitator teams that create this atmosphere at each Turning Point group. Last Monday, 75 people came to take a step towards personal change over the next 10 weeks. We don't know where this journey will take them or how it will unfold. We provide a space for them to take a step toward Jesus, and we know it's the right direction!
Kathy,
I have often said that listening seems to a lost art. After reading your post I think I should add "being there for someone" is also a lost art. I will use grief as an example, but applies to other situations too. I love the Jewish concept of "sitting Shiva", you see it some extent in Job. Sometimes you just need to be there for your friends, you don't need to say much or try to explain the circumstance i.e., "God has purpose", "It happened for a reason", etc. You just need to be there with them to comfort, listen, or even grieve with them. That is the kind of friend God calls us to be.
Thanks for keeping the conversation going. I love serving Jesus with you...
Dan
Posted by: Dan Clark | June 04, 2009 at 09:58 AM