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TheDisicpleMD

I once met with a 14-year-old girl from my church per her request. The week prior she and I had both attended a church youth conference far from the streets of the inner city in which she lived. As we sat and talked her faced was filled with light as she related to me the joy she had felt on the trip and the beauty of the “new” world which she had experienced. Her voice was filled with the typical enthusiasm that comes with youthfulness. Her smiling face radiated all the hopes and dreams that we all have for our lives.

Then in a moment, the smile disappeared, the voice dropped, and her head bowed. I thought she might start to cry, but she didn’t. I watched as she slowly raised her head, and as her eyes met mine, she said, “It was so wonderful. I want to go back and feel that way. I don’t want to go back to my life.” And although the tears didn’t form in her eyes or fall from her cheeks, I could hear the tears in her voice. At that moment I felt helpless as to the words I might say to ease her pain and fear. I offered words of comfort but as she departed I couldn’t help but feel the emptiness of it all. After she left I sat at my desk for a long time contemplating her plight. And although that conversation occurred over twenty years ago, the memory of her anguish has stayed with me.

Over the years I have held conversations with many young people who had tears in their voices. I wish I could say that I had answers for them and that somehow I was able to ease their pain. Perhaps in a small way I was able to do so. But I am haunted by the hopelessness of their thoughts, and the dry tears that fell from their voices. For them I wanted a life full of hope and joy, yet I knew that for many their lives would not be what both they and I so desired. Many came from homes where love had long since been bolted out by their front door.

This life has never been one of fairness. It was created and designed as a testing ground. Knowing that doesn’t necessarily sooth the soul of those who suffer. But, I have great hope in the promises of the Savior spoken of by Peter, when he wrote:

“Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness.”

We look for Him, our Savior, to return again and for the fulfillment of his words when he taught:

“Blessed be ye poor; for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh.” (Luke 6:20-21)

I look forward to that day! It will be a day when the tears in their voices will be turned to  joy!