Of course we want to run. Tears are not convenient. Grief is weighty. Pain is unwelcome.

A bandaid helps, but wounds need air and time.
Pain reliever brings relief, but the ache returns.
And a little of this or that gives a welcome break, that is only temporary.

Temporary.

His Steps

Surely, our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried… Isaiah 53, v.4

Pierced
Crushed
Chastened
Scourged

But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him. v.6

Oppressed
Afflicted
Silent…

So He did not open His mouth. v.7

… He would render Himself a guilt offering. v 10

Poured out
Bore
Interceded

My servant will, justify the many as He will bear their iniquities. v. 11

There was a price for my righteousness.

Life through death

Life comes through a most unexpected way: Life through death.

His suffering bought my life:

Life, eternal

Life, for tomorrow

Life, full today.

Run or Follow?

For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps… 1 Peter 2:21

Follow in His steps.

His steps included:

Tears

Sorrow

Suffering.

His life in me includes these things as well.

A life of purpose– one with meaning, joy and depth, will include these things as well.

Following and not Running

Tears can capture true joy. For once they possess it, they soon know the difference between “happy” and “joy.”
Sorrow creates life, for it makes a gift to share with others
Suffering brings depth, if we let it.

If I want true:
Joy
Meaning
Depth

Then there will be:
Tears
Sorrow
Suffering

Yet, if forsaken, I am not alone. There will be hope of joy in the morning, and the assurance of life after the death. …to follow in His steps.