We are constantly challenged. We are challenged by our jobs, our relationships, and our finances. I struggle with these internal conflicts but remind myself of the seeds God has planted in me. I remember the joy of love and caring and the pureness of the happiness that fills my heart. Of course, this doesn’t stop the annoyance of ConEd bills, the sadness of severe illnesses that plague my friends and family, or other worldly worries. But that pure joy is what keeps me grounded. I feel the embrace of God comfort me like a mother who comforts her child after scraping a knee.
When Jesus’ authority was questioned by the chief priests and elders of the people, he shared with them the Parable of the Tenants. When the landowner sent his servants to collect the crops due him, they were beaten or killed. The landowner ultimately sent his son who was also killed by the tenants of the land. In the end, the tenants were told that their wretchedness will be ended, and the land will be given to new tenants who will provide a portion of the crops to the landowner. Jesus then turned to the priests and elders and reminded them of the Scriptures, Psalm 118:22:
The stone the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone;
the Lord has done this,
and it is marvelous in our eyes.
Psalm 118 also sings out, “I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” (Psalm 118:13-14). So, when I am feeling sad, tormented, or dismayed, I remind myself that I am not helpless. I know that God will provide me the strength to carry on.
