A devotional by Waihon Liew (Twin Cities, MN & Malaysia)
“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep” (NLT/Romans 12:15)
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (NIV/Romans 12:15)
Shalom to all families from Radiant, Winona,
Many of us may had experienced some struggles during this year 2020. The issues of 2020 are: global pandemic, political crises, racial tensions, loss of loved ones etc.
Jesus expressed sadness and wept when he was at Lazarus’ ‘funeral’. (John 11:1-44).
As I look back at 2020, I am incredibly grateful to God
because I know He is there, and He knows all our sorrows. It is not a sign of weakness when we cry or when we mourn with others over the tragedies they faced. Our society has seen some tragedies, and many are very angry and heartbroken over those tragedies such as killings, deaths caused by COVID etc.
As disciples of Jesus, we must not be ashamed to cry / mourn with others who mourned. When Jesus wept (John 11:35-36), those who were at Lazarus’ ‘funeral’ realized how much Jesus loved and cared for them.
Our compassionate tears are also a ‘message’ to our community, that we felt their loss, their pain and sorrow.
On Dec 29th and 30th, this week, I had privilege to serve and lead a youth Vacation Bible / Games Camp by the University of Minnesota. The Karen refugee immigrants fled Myanmar (about 10 years ago) from religious persecution. I had the opportunity to listen to their persecution stories and I felt for them. I learned how to show genuine care and compassion like Jesus to my Karen youth and their leaders.
I would like to conclude my sharing / devotion with these verses below:
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:3-5/NLT)
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