For When I Don't Understand

Sometimes I just don't understand. I don't have an answer for my questions, and they just run on a loop in my head. Why do bad things happen to good people?

Why are precious little babies lost?

Why does cancer strike?

Why do people think violence is the answer?

Why does the prospective job fall through?

Why, why, why?

I can't say I really know. And I'm not going to pretend I have all the answers. I know we live in a broken world. I know God is in control. I know He has a big, glorious, mind-boggling plan for this world. I know life won't be perfect this side of heaven.

But sometimes I'm struck anew by the weight of the brokenness in the here and now. When things happen to my people. When the headlines draw my attention to yet another instance of injustice or natural disaster.

In those moments, I'm forced once again to admit that I just don't know. I have no real choice but to fall to my knees, admit the limits of my understanding, and commune with the One who knows the whys behind it all.

Lord Jesus, You are with us in the midst of our pain and confusion. You lend us Your strength when ours has run out, and give us hope knowing that we don't have to understand but can still have faith in our doubting. Help us to have faith beyond what our eyes can see. And help us to love one another through the times when we just don't understand. Help us live like love.