Look around you. The people you pass are so precious to God that He sent His only Son to be tortured, humiliated, and killed—for our sake! A smile doesn’t mean everything’s alright. Take a moment to listen or share your story. It could mean the difference between life and death.
What’s the one thing we avoid sharing? For many, it’s the pain and suffering we’ve endured. No one enjoys reliving it, and certainly, no one wants to go through it.
As brothers and sisters in Christ, why don’t we share each other’s burdens more often? “That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus… As they talked… Jesus himself suddenly came and walked along with them.” —Luke 24:13-15. We’re quick to share a new car, invite folks to a housewarming, or celebrate a baby shower. But what about when we lose a job, our dog dies, or someone hurls a cruel name at school?
It may sound strange, but I have a fond memory of a time of pain. At 19, I got into trouble, and my world was crumbling. I thought no one could suffer like me. Suicidal thoughts crept in. Forced to attend Emotions Anonymous (EA), a 12-step program like AA, I felt out of place. After a month, a man about 30 approached me and asked, “Are you okay?” I snapped, “Do I look okay?” He said, “I know where you’re coming from.” I shot back, “You have no idea! Who do you think you are?” After some harsh words, he calmly said he knew I wasn’t ready to share my burden but asked if he could share his. Feeling guilty, I agreed. Here’s what he said:
“I’m a selfish man. My life revolved around me. I had a wife and three kids, but I got addicted to cocaine. One day, high on coke, I picked my family up from the mall. My wife, daughter, and two sons got in the car. After our usual fight, we left the parking lot. I could barely see the road, let alone the truck I veered into. The last thing I heard was my wife screaming ‘No!’—it still echoes in my head. I woke up in the hospital, worried about getting caught for driving under the influence, hoping the cops didn’t check my glove box. Then I asked about my family. The doctor’s words haunt me: ‘No, Mr. [Name], your family isn’t alright. You killed them all.’ I was charged with manslaughter, and now I’m here talking to you.”
This true story changed my life. I was on the brink of suicide, but his shared pain showed me I wasn’t alone. Others suffered far worse, and maybe my pain wasn’t the end. I still think of his story during trials, and I’m grateful God blessed me with my daughter’s joy now. If I’d ended my life back then, I’d never have known her.
I don’t know all of you or your struggles, but I understand where you’re coming from. If you need to talk, don’t hesitate—reach out to me or others. Jesus might just show up, as He did on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-15). I’m one person, but countless kind brothers and sisters are ready to share life with you. Isn’t it time we set aside embarrassment or fear and become the body of Christ we’re called to be? Lend an ear to someone in pain. Lower your guard, share your heart, and watch for Christ—He’s near!