From Lament to Joy

Having to navigate the transition of 2 of my Pastors from my church, my ministry partner Barron transitioning out of IVCF, and my student president Catherine suddenly needing to transition out of IVCF SFU, it has been a rough and difficult year for both April and I.  I think it was especially difficult for April as she often felt helpless during this whole process.

What we learned though is that during these times of sadness, no matter how bad they seem to be, there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel.  In the moment, it felt extremely difficult to see any form of joy.  Yet, when we chose to sit with it and acknowledge the pain that we were feeling in situations within and beyond our control, we realize how much we couldn't do it on our own and started coming back to the one who has full control over every part of our lives.  Jesus.  The more we chose into lament, the deeper our reliance became on Jesus.  

Eventually, as we continue to acknowledge our pain, suffering, anger, frustration, and sadness, there came a tipping point where April and I could look at our situations and say, "God is in control." and experience an immense amount of joy knowing and believing that to be true.  

I think that tipping point for us happened a few weeks back.  Despite the crazy business and tiredness that we have been experiencing, we have still been experiencing a depth of joy that nothing can take away.  Through provision (finances and opportunities), encouragements from friends, and opportunities to lead deeper, these are the beginnings of the joys we have been able to encounter.  

So to leave you with some encouragement.  If you are in a slump, do not be afraid to acknowledge your frustrations, sadness, pain, etc, in front of Jesus.  This is an expression of showing your weakness in front of Jesus (2 Corinthians 12:9).  As you reveal your true self and feelings to Jesus, His power and strength will become manifest in you and followed that will be joy.

My dear friends, lament well and experience the deep Joy of God's presence.