Suffering in Silence

READ:
Colossians 3:12-17

The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.

In the shadows I see her rocking alone.
On the fringe he’s fighting a war all his own.
It’s easy for me to just turn away,
but Jesus tells me to take time to stay.

In compassion I hold her passive, cold hand.
With concern I bend down and help him to stand.
I don’t feel assured in what I should do,
yet Jesus guides me as His love shines through.

In a moment I’m gripped by this solemn thought:
My own mind may one day be sick and distraught.
What a gift from God it surely would be
for Jesus to draw someone close to me!

In the present, I have these hours to spend,
showing love as I help the fallen to mend.
In the future I’ll know just what took place,
as Jesus used me to brighten a face,
and how He led others to show me His grace.
—Tom Felten

REFLECTION

• Can I think of some people who are hurting emotionally? What prevents me from helping them? What will I do to get past my reluctance?
• How will I encourage one of them today by showing him or her God’s love?

Help heal the hurting.

campus journal