The Well of Pain

timberland boots sale Life is an incredible adventure and yet it passes like a shadow (Ps 144:4). The only thing certain about life is that it will end in death. Despite the stark truth about it, death is one of the most difficult experiences (not for the person who is dead, of course) to endure and cope with, particularly if it befalls a loved one. Jesus while on his way to Nain, sees the grief of the widow who has lost her only son (Lk 7:12). Pain is like a well. When you are inside, it is hard to see anything beyond its walls. You look to the blue sky above you, but your feelings do not let you go very easily. The strong of heart can make it out without aid but for the vast majority, a saving rope is more than welcome. Jesus observed this woman's pain and threw her a saving rope.

timberland earthkeeper On seeing her, the Lord had pity on her and said, "Do not weep" (v. 13). Every one of us has experienced 'the well of pain' at some point or another, in one way or another. If we recall those moments and examine them closely, we will realize that we either overcame the pain ourselves or were helped by others. Jesus is there close to us every moment of our life. He sees our joy and pain, success and failure, smiles and tears. It takes faith to hear him say the words "Do not weep" but hearing the words does not take as much faith as it takes to know that he will do something about it. A word of caution here: Just because we have the faith and have asked the Lord for help, does not mean that the pain must necessarily be taken away. We must not take umbrage at this apparent denial from the Lord. His thoughts are not our thoughts nor are his ways our ways (Is 55:8).

Numerous people across the world and even the lives of some saints will bear testimony to the fact that the Lord, for whatever reason did not take away their pain. A number of examples spring into my head but I will restrict myself to only two. The first is Nick Vujicic. He was born without any of his limbs but he has traveled across Australia, his home country and has even visited several other countries spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. The second example is Bl Alexandrina da Costa. She suffered paralysis at a young age. She was bedridden for 30 years but she spent her days in prayer and was graced with mystical experiences. She also counseled and comforted all those who came to her.

God has his own way of doing things and what is vital for us to remember is that He is in-charge and He knows what is best. We will benefit most if we submit to His will. Nick and Alexandrina are shining examples. The widow of Nain also reflects this attitude. She was utterly helpless and her condition hopeless. She had a bleak future ahead of her. She would have to hang her head in shame and carry the double weight of being a widow and not having a son. Thus, she weeps and Jesus' eyes of compassion fall on her. He is moved with pity and halts the funeral procession. timberland uk She never utters a word. She submits herself to God and He works a miracle. She was drowning in her well of pain but along came the Lord with his rope of salvation. He offered it to her and she gladly took hold of it for dear life.