Thanks to blog world and Facebook we are constantly updated with the news of people's personal lives like never before. At different times I've wondered has life always been this sad and hard on people or is it one more "signs of the times". Seems like every time I log into FB someone else has died, another person struck with a horrible illness, family issues, not to mention a lot of complaining in general. It seems to be a vicious, never-ending cycle. Looking back over history, I have to realize that it's always been this way. We are just more exposed to it because of the Internet, phones, and TV.
Several of my friends are currently going through very dark times. Some are dealing with grief over a death, another is watching their child suffer with cancer, while a couple of others having spouses who are in the hospital, and some who feel like they are at the end of their rope financially. Sometimes I find myself wanting to grow crusty around the edges from all the negativity.
I know from experience that when life's trials get to be overwhelming it can cause one to wonder:
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"Does Jesus care when my heart is pained too deeply for mirth or song, as the burdens press, and the cares distress, and the way grows weary and long?
*Does Jesus care when my way is dark with a nameless dread and fear? As the daylight fades into deep night shades. Does He care enough to be near?
*Does Jesus care when I've tried and failed to resist some temptation strong. When for my deep grief I find no relief, tho my tear flow all the night long.
*Does Jesus care when I've said good-bye to the dearest on earth to me, and my sad heart aches till it nearly brakes? Is it aught to Him? Does He see?"
My mind goes to a personal experienced I had about year ago. I received a phone call that my dad had been taken to the hospital having all the symptoms of a heart attack. Living 2 hours from the hospital and having a son in school I didn't jump in my car and rush on over. I waiting to find out just what really was going on before find someone to watch my kids, etc... I knew I was doing what I needed to do, but I had a brother who didn't think so. He proceeded to call me 2 times and call me every nasty name in the book. I hung up on him both times. I don't take stupidity from anyone no matter the situation.
Upon having an intelligent conversation with my mom a little while later. I decided that the situation was bad enough I better take the trip. To make a long story short, upon arrival at Allegheny General the atmosphere was so tense you couldn't cut it with a jack-knife. Part way through the evening I took a walk, desperately feeling the need for help because I felt like I was "alone in a crowded room". I couldn't think of anyone I knew who I could really call and ask them to pray for me. As I was spilling my heart out to God that I had no one, He very gently reminded me that I did have someone to pray. It was none other then Jesus Himself.
Romans 8:26
New Living Translation (NLT)
26 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.
That realization alone gave me so much strength I felt like I could take on the whole world. A peace and quiet settled all over me and I was able to get through the next few days. I knew that little moment with God would stay with me for a long time. And there have been times since that I have needed the reminder.
Can I tell you that Jesus does care!! Let me encourage you that whatever your trial, don't turn to facebook as your only release source. But rather go to Jesus. He wants to hear you call out to Him for help. He is already taking your need(s) to the throne. Trust Him!!!
