22 Mar 09
Fourth Sunday in Lent
The Lifting up the Son of Man
John 3:14-21
There are those of us who experience life as a stern taskmaster exerting demands on us whenever we encounter obstacles and distractions from what we yearn for in life. Some of us may also encounter distressful experiences that cause us pain and guilt, leaving us wondering if the God we believe in is all but a punitive parent who delights in condemnation rather than affirmation.
Sometimes we wander about in darkness, searching for a glimpse of the light at the end of the tunnel. SOmewhow, this eludes us as the tunnel seems so long and dark. There does not seem to be relief and each day just seems to bring about a sense of despair.
Depression often sets in, accompanied by feelings of anxiety and a sense of hopelessness. Life seems so meaningless and prevailing negative thoughts about oneself, people, the world and God obscure our perspective that life is worth living. It is comforting that in the midst of all, there is the assurance that our God, the Shepherd is with us, so that “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me” (Ps 23:4).
That was the reason God sent His Son into this world, to offer salvation and bring us into the light. This should spell deliverance from our pain and guilt, despair and distress.
God will not leave us alone for His Son is here with us, to journey with us, transforming our journey of darkness into light.
(Anthony Yeo,
Consultant Therapist,
Counselling and Care Centre)
Commitment:
I surrender to you O Lord the darkness in my life, feat and anxieties so that I may catch the light which comes from you.
Prayer:
Thank you for your assurance that you will never leave me nor forsake me. Lead me to your light and love. Amen.
Fourth Sunday in Lent
The Lifting up the Son of Man
John 3:14-21
There are those of us who experience life as a stern taskmaster exerting demands on us whenever we encounter obstacles and distractions from what we yearn for in life. Some of us may also encounter distressful experiences that cause us pain and guilt, leaving us wondering if the God we believe in is all but a punitive parent who delights in condemnation rather than affirmation.
Sometimes we wander about in darkness, searching for a glimpse of the light at the end of the tunnel. SOmewhow, this eludes us as the tunnel seems so long and dark. There does not seem to be relief and each day just seems to bring about a sense of despair.
Depression often sets in, accompanied by feelings of anxiety and a sense of hopelessness. Life seems so meaningless and prevailing negative thoughts about oneself, people, the world and God obscure our perspective that life is worth living. It is comforting that in the midst of all, there is the assurance that our God, the Shepherd is with us, so that “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me” (Ps 23:4).
That was the reason God sent His Son into this world, to offer salvation and bring us into the light. This should spell deliverance from our pain and guilt, despair and distress.
God will not leave us alone for His Son is here with us, to journey with us, transforming our journey of darkness into light.
(Anthony Yeo,
Consultant Therapist,
Counselling and Care Centre)
Commitment:
I surrender to you O Lord the darkness in my life, feat and anxieties so that I may catch the light which comes from you.
Prayer:
Thank you for your assurance that you will never leave me nor forsake me. Lead me to your light and love. Amen.
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