“Our world cries out for a theology of spiritual growth that has proven to work in the midst of the harsh realities of daily life.” – Richard Foster.
“Help,” so the cries pour forth.
A need, a desire; something is wrong.
To some, help is for the weak.
For others, help means there’s suffering.
Who wants to look at suffering, sit with suffering
when it reflects such a deep seated fear within.
If I don’t need help, I must be fine.
If I don’t see need, I don’t have to be reminded of my own.
If I cry out for help, will anyone even hear?
If everyone suffers, can anyone help?
We know the one’s who’ve suffered well.
They’re not unscathed, but their steadiness is borne
from a place where faith meets experience.
Blessed are those whose suffering is anchored in hope.
For their souls expand and they are clothed in wisdom.
When suffering is integrated, it’s transformed.
Transformed suffering, as James says, makes one perfect and complete,
lacking nothing;
wisdom embodied.
This is the help the world desperately needs.
The only way is through and with.