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Vol. 2006 Issue 12 ~ December

Well, I never thought I’d say this, but…it’s over. That crisis that I alluded to in almost every column this year is done. And, thankfully, it wrapped up in our favor. My husband and I can go back to life as we knew it before.

Or can we? I think it’s safe to say that he will never be the same, I will never be the same, our individual relationships with God will never be the same, and our marriage will never be the same. We have both learned so many invaluable lessons through our pain, that although I would never ask for that kind of trial to visit us again, I know that I would never have changed the way I have without it crashing into our lives.

I was reminded of the depth of mystery of who God really is. Of his care. And how he loves us like a knowing parent who allows hurt for growth. I was reminded that Kevin and I are a team, to fight against the darkness together, not to fight against each other. I was reminded how deeply my girlfriends love me as they rallied around me together and individually, and as we carved out some really special moments that never would have happened had I not been such a basket case this year. I was reminded that I have a few more stories left to tell as book three has come to life in me. I was reminded of the importance of sharing my account of how God is working in my life and how that is a really natural way to point someone to him, maybe for the first time, as I had the opportunity just this past weekend to lead someone to Christ after hearing me give a talk about my hard year. And I learned something brand new about myself…that my heart is capable of a deeply felt compassion for those who are hurting in my church and on the other side of the world. My hurt woke me up to other’s hurt.

I never used to like pain. I definitely would have preferred smooth sailing. But not anymore. Because I finally understand that pain and pain alone will drive me into my Father’s arms, and pain is the only thing that will draw out of me what needs to be left behind.

As you walk into Christmas and prepare for a new year, my wish for each of you is a holiday that is filled with peace through any circumstance, and with seeking the God who wants only the best for you.

Ó Elisabeth K. Corcoran, 2006

Submitted on : 27-Nov-2006