How Do You Do It Lord?

Chad and I were able to get away for a few days to soak up some much needed rest and relaxation in beautiful central Oregon. As we were out and about on one of our scenic tours, (we love to take drives), I began to notice the scenery around me, rather than just let it pass by, while I sat encapsulated in my safe surroundings (our car). Although beautiful, yes, with the majestic mountains and powerful rock formations, it was devastating at the same time. I noticed animals inhabiting improper living conditions. I saw two young girls living in what I would consider deplorable surroundings, yet they were playing, running, and jumping, appearing to enjoy themselves, and just a mile or two down the road there were homes as big as mansions with people tending to their gorgeous gardens, seeming to have no care in the world.

The next morning as I sit with The Lord, my heart was burdened with this sadness and I cried out to The Lord. Here was my plea -

Lord, there is so much suffering - people dying, animals abandoned, poverty, depression - the list goes on and on and on.

How do You take it Lord? I’m struggling with the travesties I see in my neck of the woods, yet, You, see it all. I’m sickened to the point of wanting to hide under my covers and not come out until You appear to take me home because I think what can I possibly do. You, Lord, The Holy One, omniscient, not only see the tortures that are being committed, but feel the anguish, despair, and devastation. You hear the secret cries of hearts, and know the loss that will come in the next minute, hour, month, and year.

How do You do it Lord? How can You deal with this? My heart is breaking. I can’t even imagine what You are feeling. Help me Lord one more time to hope in You alone. One day You will return and there will be no more suffering, death, pain, turmoil, or grief. Help me Lord to make the most of my days, to not let them slip away, because my time on this earth is short. Thank You for comforting me in my time of need. Thank You for letting me be a part of Your plan to touch the precious hearts of the people You have created. Thank You Lord for giving me the courage and stamina to get up and keep doing the things You have called me to do. Thank You that my frailties do not compromise Your generous plan to reach this world. Thank You for reminding me to look up, to fix my eyes on You, so that the amazing love You have shown me will encompass the ones I meet daily. My hope is in You.