February 23, 2022

In Too Sensitive for this World, Deer Tick tells us that the world is such a careless and selfish place that it’s a wonder that anyone survives. Louis Armstrong, on the other hand, thinks to himself about how wonderful the world is. Where does the truth lie?

Scripture tells us that both Louie and Deer Tick are right. The world is rife with suffering and yet teeming with beauty and wonder. Through the grace of God, we know that all suffering has purpose and that all suffering will be redeemed. As Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Keeping our eyes on the cross helps, too. His suffering is our redemption.

“O God, who before the passion of your only ­begotten Son revealed his glory upon the holy mountain: Grant to us that we, beholding by faith the light of his countenance, may be strengthened to bear our cross, and be changed into his likeness from glory to glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.” (Last Sunday after Epiphany – BCP)