Active Theology

And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (Revelation 21:5, ESV)

It’s been a long week. Last week, my 4 year old daughter was in the beginning stages of a cold. Whenever she is sick, she always has a hard time sleeping. So I went into her room at bedtime to help her get some sleep. 

As I laid down next to her she said, “I wish Adam and Eve didn’t obey the snake and obeyed God instead. Then I wouldn’t get sick, and animals wouldn’t get termites (fleas), I wish it could all be perfect”. 

Laying beside her, I didn’t know what else to say other than “I’m so sorry you’re sick, and I wish it could all be perfect too”. 

After my response, I laid there in silence. I was caught off guard by her insight about Adam and Eve’s disobedience and its effects, but then our conversation naturally turned to Jesus. I don’t have answers for all of the pain, suffering, and problems in the world. However, I do know that we have a Savior who suffers these things with us. (Heb. 4:14-16) 

All 5 members of my family were sick this past week. Everyone had a fever. My wife and I were “stumbling forward” throughout the week as we wrung out every drop of energy we had in order to take care of our kids and have clean dishes for the next day. 

I don’t know what you are going through. 

Life might just feel really hard right now. Things are uncertain, you’re going through a season of suffering, or you’re waiting to hear some unwelcome news. Whatever it is, God meets us in our suffering. 

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Ps. 34:18)

Not only does Jesus suffer alongside us, he has also promised to return and make all things new. The things we experience now are only temporary.

We long for this renewal. Creation longs for renewal. (Rom. 8:22-23)

“He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.” (Revelation 22:20-21, ESV)

Upon Jesus’ return the realities of our pain, discouragement, confusion, and suffering will be a thing of the past. We can rejoice in this promise.

So what is something that kept me going this past week in the midst of my whole family being sick?

He is with us now, He will be with us then, and all things will be made new.

Prayer: God, thank you for Scripture and the promises that are found in it. Although I experience pain and suffering in this life, I pray that I will be reminded that You are with me. And help me to look forward to Jesus’ return when all will be made new. Amen.

Song: “Is He Worthy?” by Andrew Peterson

Craig is a worship pastor at Wallula Christian Church and the creator of Active Theology. He loves coffee dates with his wife, reading, and riding his bike. A few of his favorite things are third wave coffee, vanilla ice cream, and plain t-shirts.