Bouncebackedness: Groans

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. ² Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, ³ because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. ⁴ For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. ⁵ Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 1-5

This week, I have been checking weather updates and social media posts intently, as several people I value, quite literally, have been “stripped of their earthly tent.” Most are probably very aware by now of the devastation of Hurricane Matthew in Haiti. The people of Haiti have a special place in my heart, and knowing that they are enduring such great suffering right now saddens me deeply. It doesn’t seem fair that a country with the least amount of resources, and the least amount of protection from natural disaster should have to face this.

As I have been reading the updates from Hut Outreach and Arise Haiti, two organizations I have had the pleasure of partnering with, I am blown away by their dedication to God amidst tragedy. Many of these people are dealing with flooded or completely lost homes, and a great lack of resources. Nonetheless, these individuals have made it a priority not solely to meet their own needs, but to enter into a community that is faced with devastation and offer help.

As I reflect on Sunday’s message in relation to this story, I see a beautiful example of people bringing God glory amidst a groaning nation. Living on earth is something that was never promised to be easy. The members of Arise Haiti and Hut Outreach have certainly encountered an event worthy of groaning. However, they possess a beautiful “deposit” of eternity within them. They possess the Holy Spirit. It is my prayer that they continue to grip tight to God’s presence and love during this time, and are able to bring God glory here on earth, until they enter into eternal glory with Jesus.

If you are facing any challenges right now, I encourage you to cling to the “deposit” God has placed within you. While our life on earth may strip us of the things we value the most, nothing can keep us from the love and glory of our God that was, is, and is to come. 

Written by: Tamara Sturdivant