“It Is What It Is” is an axiom to express acceptance of things that can’t be changed.
One take-away from our discussion this week is that it can’t stop there. Whether our own suffering or that of those we love, we have to follow through with more, and often it’s others that can help us get to that point.
We reviewed the story of Lazarus and although Jesus knew the end of the story, and spoke plainly of it to his disciples, he took time to be ‘present’ with Mary and Martha as they experienced it. They didn’t see how it would work out… until they did.
We’re the same. Your family and friends… they’re the same. Especially with deep grief, it’s okay to be honest with God and others about our pain, to feel the depths, even if we know logically God’s promises and the hope that we have in Christ.
Suffering is an inevitable part of this life’s journey. Yet, God is the “God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (II Cor. 1:4 ESV)
This is where action is required on our part. It begins with showing love and no expectation of any response in return. We can’t need for them to ‘be encouraged’ by us… we just give… a listening ear, a meal, a helping hand, and prayer.
In due time, it may be that our own life story can help bring them to the next step, or we might be able to connect them with someone else who can speak from experience. The cause of suffering itself may not change, but patient love can help them heal and see how to move forward.
Our time together reminded me of the wisdom and comfort to be gained from the life experiences of others. I was tremendously strengthened by the stories and counsel that were shared.