Perhaps one of the reasons so many of us with chronic illnes identify with the biblical tale of Job is that we have (or are) lived it (living it). Recent time has certainly been like that for me, not just in terms of health issues, but also life “happening” (this will surely be the stuff of more than one blog post to come!). And i’ve found myself, once again, thinking of Job and his trials, as well as the way he and his friends handled things. And, then, of course, there is God speaking when nobody else seems to be able to “cut to the chase.”

Reading about Job is, of course, very different from feeling as if you’re living his tale yourself. There’s always a certain detachment between Job’s suffering and our own cozy reading chair, no matter which “modern” translation you read. But the story is still relevant. Throughout history, people have experienced trouble upon trouble, stress upon stress, and felt impotent, alone, and, yes, at times, compass-less. With Job, though, we also see the turning point and the aftermath.

God speaks, asserting his omnipotence and omniscience.

Job listens, understanding, finally, that no matter how rich or blessed or otherwise worthy, life on earth can be very hard sometimes and God is more powerful than any of the bounty a person possesses.

And, after these turning points, Job is able to find a way out of the pit of despair into which he has fallen and balance his life, once again, finding greater happiness and faith than he ever would had he not had his trials.

So, no matter what problems arise for each of us, even to the point of tremendous loss, if we look to Job, we see the “whole” story, and can take heart, find inspiration, and understand. Of course, too, if Job doesn’t do it, then surely the New Testament will, with Jesus’ birth, life, and death on a cross – and His glorious resurrection. Salvation for all his beloved children, no matter how harsh their trials.

Blessings for the day,

Maureen