Mike’s Musings ….
Aches and Pains
All of us have had aches and pains of one sort or another. Some are acute (temporary – but the syllable “cute” doesn’t seem to fit our pain levels) while others are chronic (long lasting and seemingly “permanent” regardless of what treatments we take.) The older we get, the more aches and pains we have. We call it “life” and often refer to Solomon’s wisdom in Ecclesiastes 12 to remind us that youth becomes age all too quickly.
Complaining about these aches and pains doesn’t do much good except emotionally. We admire those who have these maladies but never complain! Others seem to demand our attention toward their grievances as though no one else suffers – certainly not as much as they do! And, of course, some compare their ailments, perhaps seeking mutual sympathy. Still, we hurt!
But I muse on how this works SPIRITUALLY. We tend to forget that the SOUL has aches and pains, and we are charged with helping our brethren when they hurt (Galatians 6:2; Romans 12:15). Physical abnormalities are not the only things that hinder us in our service to Christ. Some brethren are in severe pain spiritually, and few notice it, let alone care enough to even ask what they might do to help them!
Communication is the key! Just as your doctor asks you personal questions to definitively diagnose your physical problems, brethren need to feel comfortable speaking of their spiritual problems, being assured of confidentiality unless others need to be involved to alleviate the aches and pains. (Matthew 18: 15 – 20). Notice the context of verse 20. It has nothing to do with how many assemble for worship, but rather how many it takes to solve problems with brethren!
I muse on the health of our brethren: not so much physically as spiritually! Let’s care enough for each other to promote healthy souls in service to our Lord! Let’s care about each other!