I am always taken back and humbled by C.S. Lewis' observations and interpretations out a life chasing the heart of Christ. His brilliance and perspectives challenge me to the core at times. Other times, he makes me laugh. This is a quote I've not seen before:
"It takes courage to live through suffering; and it takes honesty to observe it. -C.S. Lewis
One more time:
"It takes courage to live through suffering; and it takes honesty to observe it. -C.S. Lewis
Suffering is humbling, however it comes. Through loss, illness, injury or separation from loved ones. Suffering shakes us down to "the cavity in our souls" as Twila Paris once sang in the song "Do I Trust You Lord". Suffering shakes us up.
Yes, it takes courage to live through suffering. But there is so much more to this quote. Note the semicolon. The literary pause is clearly and intentionally placed. After the pause: " and it takes honesty to observe it."
Watching a loved one suffer shakes us up. We ache when our children hurt. We wish we could take their suffering away. If we could remove "the cup" as Jesus referred to it, we would. Sometimes, the cup is not removed. Sometimes, there is a bigger picture that we cannot clearly see. Sometimes, we are called to honestly observe the suffering.
"Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us." -Ecclesiastes 7:3
Don't we all prefer laughter? Solomon's reflections on life as an old man are full of wisdom. He reflects on the refining fires in our lives that reshape us into people God can use for the Kingdom and to His glory. Solomon, in retrospect, saw the value of the refining fires and honestly observes it.
He asked God for wisdom. Godly wisdom lead to power, wealth and fame. Things did not satisfy the heart of King Solomon. Walking closely with God is where he found his peace.
"That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad." -Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Easter is on the horizon. I cannot help but think of those who looked upon Jesus suffering on a hill called Golgotha. John with his mother, the multiple Marys, Peter who denied him, those he had healed and those who felt their life would not go on without Him. So much pain and brokenness to observe. But... as always with those who know Him as Lord... what seems like an ending is really a beginning.
Courage. Suffering. Honest reflection. What they did not know was that Sunday was on the way.
On the darkest of days, always remember... Sunday's on the way.
Today, I am grateful for observations from C.S. Lewis.
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