Griefs and Comforts, Repentance and Rest

This morning’s service draws our attention to the relationship of joy, comfort, and affliction in the Christian life. We are invited into worship with a passage from 1 Thessalonians, which implores us to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.” The opening two hymns both call us to “join in glad adoration” and “Rejoice in [our] King”—but the exuberant joy is tempered with the reminder of “how oft in grief hath He not brought you relief, spreading His wings to o’ershade thee.” The Scripture reading from Philippians reminds us to “rejoice always” and to not be anxious, because God guards us with a peace “which surpasses all understanding.” We respond by singing Great Is Thy Faithfulness, in which we confess that God has provided all we have needed, including a “peace that endureth.” In the Sermon text from 2 Corinthians, Paul goes even further, stating that even in affliction he is “overflowing with joy.” This sentiment is echoed in the two communion hymns, Be Still My Soul and God Moves In A Mysterious Way, which hopefully declare that “thorny ways” of grief and pain can lead to a joyful end and that even the most fearful providence can disguise the tender, smiling face of the Father. No matter the circumstance, our response is clear. Do we face trials? Praise Him. Have we been brought through trials? Praise Him. It is fitting then to close the service with How Can I Keep From Singing? Through tumult and strife, darkness and storms, Christ is Lord of Heaven and earth—and He promises us peace. So praise Him! —Henry C. Haffner