A guy who loved his dad for his wisdom amongst other things, was once offered this treasured piece of advice by him: Things could be better but things could be worse. If this is said to trivialize the struggles and pain of others or to advocate inaction and passivity, then it is not good advice. The book of Psalms is very clear that it is okay to acknowledge and express one’s pain and hardship. There is nothing wrong with wanting to improve our lives per se. Therefore, context is important. When I think of the father’s advice, I’m thinking more along the lines of keeping perspective and gratitude.
Yesterday, just as Sue and I were about to go home from church, we found a guy (in his 30s) sprawled across the donation bins, asleep. He was wearing a sleeveless shirt and shorts but had no shoes on. I found out he had nowhere to live and nowhere to go. His sisters are struggling financially and can’t help him. His dad doesn’t want to have anything to do with him. His mum passed away 20 years ago. He looked lost and broken.
To cut the long story short, first, we got Justin to put on a jumper, track pants and a pair of shoes, with the compliments of our Thrift Shop. He told us that he knew of a café in Beenleigh where he might be able to receive some assistance. So we drove him to Roma Street train station, gave him $10 to get a Go-Card so he could get himself to Beenleigh. I was thinking for the rest of the day what would it’d be like to be in this man’s shoes?
Earlier in the day, I read an article about a British fitness fan and a digital marketer, 32 years of age, whose ordeal began mid-last year when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour. As the cancer was slow-growing, he actually recovered after surgery and six weeks of radiotherapy. In May this year, he was admitted to hospital after suffering with headaches, dizziness and fatigue.
He had developed fluid on the brain. His body did not respond well to a procedure to drain the liquid. Instead, the condition had a catastrophic impact on Oli, who became paralysed and unable to eat, talk and move. His condition is known as ‘locked-in’ syndrome. His girlfriend, Beth said, “He can wiggle his fingers a little bit and can shrug his shoulders sometimes to say no. Everything else is fine – he can still understand everything I say to him”. HoweverBeth is heartbroken, as she thought they could move on with their lives after the tumour was removed.
The father’s advice was in the forefront of my mind when I thought of Justin, Oli and Beth. It gave me a much-needed fresh perspective on life’s challenges I’ve faced and am facing. Their stories also helped me see how I am needing to be far more grateful than what I’ve been for my life.
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2 NIV – emphasis mine)
Christ in me, the hope of glory!
Mark
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