Most of Life is a Storm…

No matter how much we plan and prepare, life is going to surprise us with pain. 

We will all come to a realization, and the sooner we recognize this, the more peaceful and joyful our lives can be despite the storms of pain. 

The Realization: I've reached the end of my resources, my capabilities, my understanding, and my know-how. This realization is a radical rejection of the mainstream hyper-individualism and personal brand popularity. 

When you reach the end of yourself, this is when you are truly ready and willing to explore faith, mystery, and the adventurous beauty of Christ and His Kingdom. 

I recall a scene in one of my favorite movies: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Walter, in desperate search for a lost photo, looks up at a picture of his colleague, a famous photographer known for putting himself in the craziest situations in order to capture the beauty of life. 

Walter has reached the end of his resources. He has no idea what to do as he faces humiliation and the likelihood of losing his job. As he looks at the photo, his imagination brings it to life and the famous photographer in the photo gently moves his hand to invite him into the adventure, to come find him. 

And Walter leaves behind all that he knows and discovers the beauty of life amidst the pain. 

This is what Christ does for us, He is waiting for us there, in the pain, gently inviting us to join Him and let Him be our guide going forward. 

Henri Nouwen wrote (paraphrased), "The Cup of Joy and the Cup of Suffering are the same cup. You can't have one without the other...so drink the cup"

Let Christ lead you through the storm of life.