Where Joy and Sorrow Meet

As Paul is recounting his hardships in 2 Corinthians 3:6-10, he uses the phrase "sorrowful, yet always rejoicing". This is one of those paradoxes that defines the Christian life. I don't believe he is using the word "sorrow" to simply describe the emotional reaction to hunger, beatings and imprisonments. I think it's a much deeper meaning - mainly in his heart for those he is trying to reach with the Gospel who cannot or will not hear. Indeed, I felt it this morning as a dear friend of mine, who had a very positive impact on my life during my formative years, is unable to see what I see in Christ Jesus. Her inability to grasp the truth of the Gospel leaves me with a deep burden and sorrow. Yet I am reminded of my own salvation and rejoice in what God continues to do in my heart and life and in those around me.

"37"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing."

This morning gave me a renewed glimpse into the heart of Jesus as He ached for His people to come to Him. It is indeed sorrowful...and yet I must keep rejoicing.

There’s a place of quiet stillness ‘tween the light and shadows reach
Where the hurting and the hopeless seek everlasting peace
Words of men and songs of angels whisper comfort bittersweet
Mending grief and life eternal where joy and sorrow meet

There is a place where hope remains
In crowns of thorns and crimson stains
And tears that fall on Jesus’ feet
Where joy and sorrow meet

There’s a place the lost surrender and the weary will retreat
Full of grace and mercy tender in times of unbelief
For the wounded there is healing, strength is given to the weak
Broken hearts find love redeeming where joy and sorrow meet

There’s a place of thirst and hunger where the roots of faith grow deep
And there is rain and rolling thunder when the road is rough and steep
There is hope in desperation there is victory in defeat
At the cross of restoration where joy and sorrow meet