These past few weeks, two readers have mentioned loved ones that are going through great suffering as a result of an injury and of cancer.  One person asked, “Why is God allowing me to suffer like this?”  Not having experienced either situation, it is tempting—in my naïve sympathy-- to simply send them a little list of reasons why they might be facing what they are.  But, though we may not share the same venue of suffering, the same promises of grace, strength, and help are made to fit us all. 

This week, as well, I have been re-reading Job.  Unless you understand the ending, it could be a depressing and frustrating book.  A new “Aha!” for me came in 1:20.  After hearing about Satan’s first onslaught, Job shaved his head, tore his clothes, fell down, “and worshiped.”  (Probably not my first response to suffering).  Not a boisterous singing and waving of hands as in “praise-and-worship”, but a quiet humility and initial trust in God’s providence. Grief and worship—unlikely companions.