Together

DEVOTION
ROMANS
TOGETHER
Rom 12:15
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
NIV
Can I really do this? I mean, at times I think it to be easier to mourn with others then to rejoice. When another member of the body is mourning, I think I might be able to feel a certain sense of sorrow for their situation. At the same time, however, I also must admit I feel a certain sense of relief, that it is not I who would have to walk that path. I know that sounds a tad bit selfish, and although I truly do not wish to see my brothers and sister in Christ have to travel through difficult times, I still am appreciative I am not walking that path. Sorrow or mourning with another seems to me to be the only response I can have to those who have to face situations which are difficult. I do feel bad for them, and wish in some way I could ease the pain. I pray for them, and that is the best thing I can do. I know my Lord will handle everything. I know even though I might express my joint mourning, with a few words or a hug, I know that God can do so much more. The true comfort and peace within for the mourning soul can only come from Him. I pray I can be sensitive to their pain, and can in some way offer compassion, which I lack. Now as far as rejoicing I think this might actually be harder. It surely requires the complete lack of envy or jealously. It also requires a total commitment to humility. No doubt rejoicing with another in their experiences of marriage, child birth, anniversaries and birthdays seems an automatic response. To rejoice with them in their salvation and that of their loved ones is again without question an automatic response. Can I say the same thing regarding other areas? Can I say I rejoice when they are advanced, recognized, for achievements? Can I say I rejoice when they gain great material wealth? Can I say I rejoice when their achievements out shine mine? The answer is yes. I know in my heart I am exactly doing and being where and who God desires me to be, and that they also are doing and being exactly where and who God desires them to be. We all are a part of the Body of Christ completely interdependent. Each of us plays a part, a role, a function, and thus I can say, I can mourn and I can rejoice with the other parts, because their pain or joy are mine. I may not show it as much as I should and I will work in that area. Lord help me.