Trials.. of many kinds

This was originally posted on my Xanga site on April 10, 2007 :)

This morning I was reminded of a verse I used to keep in the front of my mind the majority of the time (thanks Dale ... and Shawna ... for keeping my mind focused on the right things). But, it has quickly become something in the back of my mind for some reason.

James 1:2-4 says "2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

I am going through some trials right now... none I can mention on here because this world is so small I don't want anyone to hear that these are regarding. I mean, other than the obvious physical trials of a major surgery. BUT knowing these tests I'm going through are actually strengthening me, encourages me and actually makes me happy I am going through these trials. In the midst of my trials, I'm finding ways to encourage other people and look beyond myself right now, which is something I am definitely not used to. I would have never sent someone an email AND called them letting them know I'm praying for them and that I know what they are going through... even if I really did and wasn't simply piling on the Christian-ese "I'll pray for ya man". But, two weeks ago I did exactly that.... a teen at church had her gall bladder removed and I had a sense of urgency to email and call her parents to let them know they can call me if they didn't want to call the doctor or whatever. I had the privilege of meeting her parents AND her on Good Friday after the second service. It was really cool. I guess this leads me to the other thought I had for a few days...

On Easter, my mom sat next to this lady who I've seen but haven't ever really talked to. As they were leaving, the lady went to my mom and said, "I want to make sure you know that we ALL adore your daughter here." That knocked the wind out of me. I didn't get how someone I haven't ever really talked to could say that, but as mom pointed out -- I obviously am carrying myself quite a bit differently than before and people are noticing. Perhaps not the people I REALLY want to say stuff are saying it (ie., single Christian males), but it was liberating to hear. Maybe they are noticing, feel the same way but aren't saying anything to anyone... hmm. Now there's a concept I hadn't ever thought about... but I won't dwell on it.