Each Sunday morning I jump in my car and drive the short distance to a little church. It's a church for the broken, beaten, and needy. There are open arms here for those who are hurting. As a result, my little classroom of Sunday school kiddos is filled with hurting, broken hearts in need of Jesus.
One little guy is a tough one. His eight year old body enters the room with an attitude twice his age. He slouches in, kicks a chair, grunts a derogatory remark, crosses his arms, and glares. He needs Jesus. Everything within my body is frustrated with his stance. I want to tell him just exactly what I think. I want to speak in my big old teacher voice and let him know he has to show me respect. Please understand, he does have much correction from me, but should my first response is that of "Listen here, Buddy!"?
Then I remember.
Mommy is in prison. Daddy overdosed on drugs. He's living with Grandma. He's mad. It's not fair. So, I pray. I ask Jesus to give me an extra dose of his love and compassion today. I teach the story of Jesus healing the ten lepers. I ask questions. This little one knows the answer to every one. His tough guy attitude isn’t working any more. Jesus, please heal Jamie’s heart! Lord, may he see your love in my life.
Monday comes. The alarm goes off. It’s another day with my boys and girls in the classroom. Nineteen precious souls. Lord, help me to have patience and love for them today. We talk about reputation, motives, and self-control. Hearts are open. Spirits are receptive. Thank you Jesus.
No, all is not hopeless.
Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
