There have been quite a few times
when I’ve heard someone say,

“I had a good cry, and I feel better now”. Have you ever felt that way? I’ll admit I’m not the crying kind of “sensitive 90’s man”. I guess it stems from my upbringing of “big boys don’t cry”. But it doesn’t mean I’m immune to the troubles of this world. I don’t stick my head in the sand. And I have nothing against crying. In fact, it brings to mind where Jesus (in His beatitudes) said, “Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh“.

Like the other beatitudes this one illustrates a most hopeful contrast. Not only will your weeping end…but you’ll actually laugh. Imagine living a life full of trials and tribulations…a life so full of pain it causes you to weep on a regular basis. You can’t see an end to it. Each day is so utterly full of challenges, you’re not sure you can rise up to meet them. So…you weep.

Now, imagine standing in the presence of your living, loving Creator

with the full knowledge you’ll never experience those challenges and aches and pains again. He greets you with a smile and fills you with His eternal life and love. And as the weeping of this world leaves you, laughter spills over your heart like a roaring creek during the spring snowmelt.

Laughter becomes your consistent companion because the joy you once only knew in part you now know in its embracing fullness.

Why would He mention weeping? And why would He say, “Blessed are you who weep now…“? Could it be He’s recognizing those who are troubled AND those who care about the heart and soul condition of their fellow man?

I’m only positing the question because we Christians are called to “love your neighbor as yourself”. And oftentimes we see our neighbors’ fate more clearly than they do. And when you see someone headed to eternal torment, it’s a natural reaction to even weep for them.

If that describes you, your laughter that’s to come will be such a magnificent gift, I can hardly wait to see the look on your face. So…if you’re weeping today, it’s yet another reason to count your blessings.

Stay tuned…