Endurance for a Lifetime - November 6

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 72; PM Psalm 119:73-96 Ecclus. 43:23-33; Rev. 16:1-11; Luke 13:10-17

It hardly seems possible, but as I wrote this, I realized that we have been sharing Daily Faith reflections for over four and a half years. (On that note, if you’ve been reading for a while and have a story of how your faith has grown or changed through these reflections, I’d love to hear it.)

When I’m well-prepared, I write my reflections in advance—sometimes even a few days ahead of time. Today, I’m writing on Tuesday, November 5.

I mention this because it feels a bit unusual to send an email at 7:45 a.m. CST the day after a U.S. Presidential Election. In this message, I want to acknowledge what it means to be faithful in the midst of our earthly journey. By noting that this was written before any election results, I hope to share what is universally true, unaffected by outcomes or assumptions.

Today’s Gospel shares a powerful truth that feels especially meaningful this morning. Jesus heals a woman who had been afflicted by a spirit that affected her wellbeing for 18 years. Given that the average life expectancy in the Roman Empire was only around 25 years, this woman had endured nearly a lifetime of suffering—yet she still found healing through Jesus Christ.

Recently, we have reflected on how our work as Christians is ongoing. We are called to support each other in love, modeling Christ’s compassion in this world. Our mission does not change based on who holds power in our country or any other. The Gospel transcends earthly empires. No current state of affairs or place in this world is the full embodiment of the Kingdom of God. To be faithful is to offer our lives to the healing work of Christ and to allow Christ to redeem and heal our own brokenness and pain. Today’s Gospel reminds us that even if we struggle for much of our lives, Christ’s redeeming love ultimately has the final word.

Life may be challenging for months, years, or even a lifetime, yet there is always hope. Today, I am going to pray for endurance, that we have the wisdom, and patience to keep seeking—and to keep sharing—the redeeming love of Christ.  May we continue to encourage each other for 18 years or a lifetime. 

Faithfully,
John+

Questions for Self-Reflection: Where do you need healing in your own life?  How can you model and share healing with others?