This Anxious Load…

As we look at people – at passing people, at people in public places—it is likely that we know little of what hangs heavily on their hearts. It is a challenging life, and interesting and good lire, but still all people have their problems.

No doubt, some of our problems, some of our sorrows are not necessary. Some of them we invite ourselves – sometimes by our own foolish decisions – by pride, false standards, stubbornness, sometimes by careless conduct. But aside from all self-invited sorrows, aside from the self-induced difficulties, there are accidents and illnesses; there are failures, and frustrations, losses and loneliness, seemingly beyond our control. There are those who are the victims of the carelessness of the evil intent of others. There are innocent and injured bystanders in many situations.

Then added to all these are the more of less commonplace problems of people – problems of earning a living, — problems of providing for home and family – problems that pertain to employment – disappointments, discouragement, and sometimes despondency.

All of this – of any part of it – could be a composite picture of what is in the thoughts and behind the faces of passing people. Yet it is a good life, a life to be enjoyed, cling to, and pursued, with mercy, forgiveness, improvement, repentance – with the faith and certainty of eternal plan and purpose.

Troubles we cannot always understand. All men have their troubles. But when the cares hang heavily, when disappointments are deep and discouraging, we need never feel alone, for as we understand our own feelings, as mothers, as fathers, and our own love of loved ones, so we may know that the Father of us all, who gave us the privilege and purpose of life, understands us, and knows our needs; and, as we seek Him, will not leave us alone.