Easter - 2018

Monday, January 24, 2011

Sorrow upon Sorrow...


But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. - Philippians 2:25-28

I have always treasured this verses. I enjoy the friendship and the joy these wonderful people shared with each other. Their love for each other and for the God they serve is a model experience for me. That Paul's friend, Epaphroditus was ill and they prayed for him. Then expressed the sorrow they would have felt in his death has always demonstrated to me what true friendship is about.

TODAY, I see new insight. I miss Nicholas beyond words. I long to hold him, cuddle him, and tell him how wonderful he is. He was a perfect fit in our family and brought us great joy. Now as I read this passage, I see Paul's words for His friend in a different light.

First, Paul could experience sorrow beyond sorrow. They didn't just go around healing people and living in a utopia setting. They experienced loss and the torture of the Roman Empire. These early Christians also had sorrow over those who rejected Christ and turned from the Gospel. In other words, we are not alone in our sorrow.

Second, Paul loved his friend and his friend still became sick. Paul also mentions anxiety for his and the Philippians friend. Again, we are not alone and we share in the reality of the power and comfort of God's word.

I miss Nicholas and have sorrow upon sorrow for him. I know I will see him again. Today I am finding comfort in knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Also, when I pray and worship, I am also in the presence of the Lord...so in my quiet time, my worship, and in my love for the Lord I have an opportunity to be in the presence with the One who is also in the presence of my little guy.

Thank you for your support, love and continued prayers. He is the sustaining us. You know I love ya...now more than ever, Don

2 comments:

Tara said...

I am so sorry! I cannot begin to imagine. Praying for you and your family.

Don Crane said...

Thank You.