Photo by Kris Kemp
Sharing In His Sufferings
Does Jesus want my happiness
Above all else on earth?
Does His love for me insure
A life of peace and mirth?
“Not so.” His Word speaks to my heart—
No promises of ease.
Yes, His love is strong and thick—
But not, “just as you please.”
I oft forget that suffering is
A promise in the Holy Book—
Passed down from Jesus and the Apostles
When the path of “disciple” I took.
Persecutions, difficulties,
Make my faith more pure.
Death to self, to life and all,
His mandate—to be sure.
Are feelings hurt or spirits crushed?
Or loved ones sore abused?
My Lord does see and feel my pain.
I know He’s not amused.
But, He will let me bear that cross,
Yet, offering His grace.
While in this world I have the chance
To taste the tears on his face.
© 2015 gratefulsue
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As a Christian, I have often thought, “I want to be like Jesus.” By this, I suppose I mean, “I want others to be drawn to God through Christ living in me.” However, I don’t exactly want to be like Jesus when it means having more trials, being rejected, ridiculed, persecuted or opposed. In the U.S. Christians have historically enjoyed great freedoms. However, as the culture becomes more secular, we must become more patient and compassionate, not more judgmental, treating others as “pagans.” God help us to bear suffering well and love all as Christ would.