Sometimes it’s easy to overlook another person’s pain. You hear their story and somehow miss what’s lurking right beneath the surface.
That’s exactly what I did, and I had heard this couple’s story dozens of times. I never got it. I never put two and two together.
Let me retell their story: The guy met and married his wife after becoming what we could call, “established.” His new bride was beautiful and perfect for him. It was said that she was handpicked by God Himself!
However, their honeymoon phase ended quicker than most. It didn’t take long for them to realize that she could not get pregnant. Having children is extremely important and valued in their culture, so this was a devastating blow to their hopes and dreams.
So he prayed. He pleaded with God to grant them a child, and God did! Actually, He did more than they asked. Not only was she pregnant, but she was going to have twins!
Now, doesn’t that seem like a happy story with wonderfully answered prayers? That’s how I understood it, but take a closer look:
“and Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah … to be his wife. And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife, because she was barren. And the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived … Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.” (Genesis 25:20–26, ESV, emphasis mine)
Now, I’m not great with time, but let’s think that through chronologically: Isaac married Rebekah when he was 40. They found out she couldn’t get pregnant, so he prayed until God granted them children … at the age of 60.
He prayed for his wife for 20 years! T.W.E.N.T.Y. Y.E.A.R.S.
Have you ever had to pray for something you desperately wanted for 20 years? If I have to “wait” 20 days for an answer for my hurting wife, it feels too long.
My family has experienced a new kind of pain in our current season of life, and boy has it opened my eyes! (and hopefully my ears)
Many people around me are hurting and experiencing varied amounts of pain.
Sometimes I hear a person’s story that includes God’s blessings or provisions, and I think “Awesome, what a great story.” But how often do I miss the “20 years” of hurting and waiting?
I’m so glad that God doesn’t overlook our pain! He sees every tear, hears every cry, and understands every struggle. He never misses it.
Thank you for how you have cared for us in our time of need. I appreciate the prayers, cards, gifts, and acts of service. You all have not missed it.
I look forward to this Sunday as we continue to study through the Sermon on the Mount. I’ll see you then.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Jack