Face of Anguish
I was recently going through my art files and came across this portrait from years ago (the original I drew was destroyed, but it was re-created for the movie Joni). It conveys all the terror of “Oh, God, is THIS now my life?!” Maybe you have been there; experienced that, grieved over it, and found the Man of Sorrows in it, sweeter and far more intimate than if the terror never touched you – if I’m describing you, then be further encouraged with these words from Henry Liddon: “Every hard effort generously faced, every sacrifice cheerfully submitted to, every word spoken under difficulties, raises those who speak or act or suffer to a higher level; endows them with a clearer sight of God; braces them with a will of more strength and freedom; and warms them with a more generous, large and tender heart.”
Hallelujah, I can’t think of a better description of the glorious things God will do when we yield our afflictions to Him. This Saturday, July 30th, marks 49 years since that fateful dive in which I broke my neck – and I’m taking that day to celebrate God’s faithfulness. Little did I know 49 years ago, that God would cast out my fears with a love so perfect, so intimate, and so complete, that I would actually become exceedingly thankful for the life I once dreaded. “The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).
Hallelujah, I can’t think of a better description of the glorious things God will do when we yield our afflictions to Him. This Saturday, July 30th, marks 49 years since that fateful dive in which I broke my neck – and I’m taking that day to celebrate God’s faithfulness. Little did I know 49 years ago, that God would cast out my fears with a love so perfect, so intimate, and so complete, that I would actually become exceedingly thankful for the life I once dreaded. “The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).
