All of this seems like too much. Nothing is too much for Jesus.
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
- Psalm 91:1
I live in Chicago.
We’re still under quarantine with thousands dead and still dying. But, COVID isn't the only sickness sweeping our city. Racism is an even more pernicious illness. Will it ever be eradicated? When will it stop taking the lives of innocents? And, my beautiful 97 year old Abuelita (Spanish for Grandma) is slowly suffering and dying. I feel all of these emotions, from frustration due to months at home, to deep sadness from all of the death, to flat out anger at the senseless racism in our nation. But, most of all I feel weary and helpless. What can I do?
Where do I go when I’m at the end of myself?
I’m reminded of what Peter said when so many other disciples were abandoning Jesus, “Where else can we go? You have the words of life.” I must go to Jesus. Where else can I go?
When I am powerless,
Jesus alone has the power.
When I am despondent,
Jesus is my joy.
Where there is death,
Jesus is life.
He too was oppressed and burdened, a man of sorrows and stricken. He doesn’t look down from a lofty throne, but he is Immanuel, God WITH us. He beacons the weary, “Come.” He calls the poor in spirit, “Come.” The broken, the failing, the burdened are all welcome to find rest in him. He is intimately acquainted with all of our grief, he carried all of our sorrows on his own back.
He is good, he is safe, and what he has done, he will surely do again. He will strengthen my soul and give me the hope to propel me forward in the work of the Gospel and his justice even here on earth until he returns, wipes our tears, and makes all things new.
How are things with you?
In what ways do you need the comfort, joy, safety, or hope of being with Jesus today?
Natalie co-founded Dwell with her sister, Vera. Together, they're committed to helping others connect with God each and every day. Natalie also hosts our weekly podcast, Dwell Differently. She and her husband, Jason, live in Chicago with their 5 kids, where Jason pastors First Free Church.
