In the three prior verses Peter reminds the child of God of two things. (1) Peter tells us of the transient nature of our life here on this earth (verses 3-5) and (2) the transient nature of our trials (6).
Sometimes rejoicing does not see to be possible when hurt and sorrow are nearby. Sorrow does not lend itself to happpiness when the pain is too great. Adding to that, hope does not appear attainable when all seems lost and our searching in vain. The ache from the pain dulls my senses to His holy presence.
Several years ago while in college, a friend of mines grandmother passed away. It was an extremely difficult time for her and the family. Moreso for her because Brenda and her grandmother we best friends. Her grandmother was very instrumental in raising her in formative years. During this time Brenda began to question God and ask "Why did her grandmother have to die?"
When my mother passed away, I too, questioned God about her passing. So, i could identify with Brenda in that respect. From that point on our paths took us different places. Brenda's road led to bitterness of soul and anger. Without divulging too much, Brenda walked away from God and her faith. I tried my best to help her understand the joy her grandmother was experiencing at that moment being in that presence of God and Jesus her Saviour. I relayed to her how i felt when my mother passed away and how i found comfort knowing she was in heaven also with God and Jesus.
Peter tells us to remember. Well, remember what? This pain will only last for a season. The pain of loss is great due to the fact we lost a loved one. Yet, the pain of seperation is temporary because we shall see them again....in heaven.
Remember your new spiritual birth...
Remember your eternal hope...
Remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ...
Ah yes Peter.! I remember.
Remember your inheritance waiting for you in heaven...
Remember that your faith is secured because of faith in Jesus Christ...
Rejoice in this...
Ah yes Peter! I shall rejoice.
Sadly, Brenda did not find solace in Her Saviour. To this day i have no idea if Brenda has come back to her Heavenly Father. (God please save her if You have not already.)
Rejoicing forces us to release our burdens unto the Lord and lay them at His feet.
Rejoicing also forces us to look to the only one who can help us through our season of trials and tribulation. Our season of heaviness.
God knows our hurt. He himself is not immune to hurting. His Son died a painful and horrible death for us. Even in His season of heaviness, God offered us grace, mercy, hope and forgiveness.
Why can i not rejoice? It is not easy but i look for and to God to help me and heal me.
God bless.
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